Grant Baker (businessman)

Grant Baker is a New Zealand businessman, entrepreneur, and venture capitalist, widely recognized for his involvement in high-profile business ventures and for his contributions to the New Zealand entrepreneurial landscape.

Early life and education
Grant Baker was raised in Mangere, located in the south of Auckland, New Zealand, with interests in motorsports from a young age. He attended teachers' college with the intention of earning an education degree but left early to pursue a career in sales.

Career
Baker's career began with newspaper ad sales before moving to office equipment sales. He is best known for co-founding the successful venture capital firm The Business Bakery. He gained notable attention for his role in the creation and $132 million sale of 42 Below vodka to Bacardi in 2006. As a chairman and principal of Auckland-based Business Bakery, Baker played a pivotal role in the $211 million takeover of Trilogy International by Citic Capital Partners.

Following the successful sale of Trilogy, Baker, along with his business partners, turned their attention to Me Today, an NZX-listed health and skincare company, which they believe has the potential to replicate Trilogy's success.

During the Global Financial Crisis (GFC), Baker's venture capital firm invested in Dorchester Pacific. This investment was pivotal as Dorchester evolved into Turners Automotive Group, which emerged as a notable entity in the NZ50 index. Baker's role transitioned to that of a non-executive chairman and a substantial shareholder in Turners Automotive Group.

Philanthropy
After his battle with bowel cancer, Baker co-founded the Gut Cancer Foundation, which aims to support research and increase awareness of gut cancers in New Zealand.

Personal life
Baker is an avid car collector, known for his collection of Ferraris. He has been involved in motorsport racing in Ferrari's Challenge Series as well as the support of young racing drivers, including Formula 1’s Liam Lawson.