Ambica Pilli

Founder & Managing Director
OrangeMind
Apex, NC 27502

Ambica Pilli is a purpose-driven real estate investor, entrepreneur, and founder of OrangeMind, an investment firm dedicated to helping individuals build wealth with clarity, intention, and long-term sustainability. With over 15 years of corporate experience spanning business strategy, marketing, and operations—including leadership roles at Siemens Healthineers and North Carolina State University—Ambica transitioned from corporate boardrooms to the world of commercial real estate. Today, she focuses on institutional-quality multifamily and commercial assets, turning strategic opportunities into lasting legacies for investors and their families.

Her journey into real estate began as a side project rooted in discipline, curiosity, and a desire for freedom. What started as modest residential investments evolved into a multimillion-dollar portfolio—creating consistent passive income and ultimately empowering her to pursue real estate full time. At OrangeMind, Ambica blends her analytical expertise with integrity-driven leadership, guiding every decision with transparency, trust, and a focus on long-term value. She is an active member of NCREIA and BiggerPockets, building connections within the investor community and mentoring others to align financial success with purpose.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Ambica is a proud mother of three and a passionate advocate for balance, intentional living, and women’s empowerment. She often shares reflections on motherhood and entrepreneurship, inspiring others to embrace resilience, take bold steps toward freedom, and redefine what success truly means. Her story is a testament to purpose and perseverance—and to her belief that real estate, when pursued with both heart and strategy, can transform lives and create generational wealth.

• North Carolina State University - MBA

• 2015 Product Development Management Association (PDMA) Innovate Carolinas Award

• BiggerPockets

• Triangle Telangana Association

Q

What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to over 15 years of experience of corporate roles, where I have been responsible for making strategic decisions, raising capital, managing investments, negotiating vendor contracts, and building strong relationships with key stakeholders. My ability to lead with vision and maintain a results-driven focus has been central to achieving sustained growth and organizational success. Yet, motherhood has been my greatest teacher of all. My children have taught me patience, presence, and the importance of dreaming big while savoring the little moments. They became my why—the reason I pivoted into real estate full time. Real estate allows me to live those lessons daily, creating freedom to balance my professional pursuits with what matters most—from corporate boardrooms to cozy family corners.

Q

What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

Never give up. In your career, challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but persistence separates those who succeed from those who plateau. Each obstacle is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow. Stay committed to your goals, keep improving, and don’t let temporary failures define your long-term trajectory. Success often comes to those who keep moving forward, even when the path isn’t easy.

Q

What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

Real estate is a capital-intensive business—one that thrives on strong networks and trusted relationships. Start small, but think big: every connection, every deal, and every lesson becomes a stepping stone toward scaling into institutional-grade assets. Persistence is essential to standing your ground in this industry, while data-driven decision-making remains the cornerstone of identifying and acquiring the right opportunities.

Q

What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

The current market is flooded with deals that generate little to no cash flow. Entering now could mean sacrificing equity on investments that may negatively impact investor returns. With higher interest rates and rising operating expenses, finding a deal that truly cash flows has become increasingly challenging.

Q

What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

The values that guide me in both my personal and professional life are commitment, community, and balance. I believe in never giving up and continually striving for excellence. I’m passionate about giving back through community outreach and making a positive impact wherever I can. Outside of work, I find joy and balance through dancing and supporting my three children in their activities—whether it’s soccer, basketball, or simply enjoying quality family time together. My husband has been both my greatest supporter and honest critic, and I credit much of my professional success to his guidance and encouragement.

Locations

OrangeMind

Apex, NC 27502