Friso Schmid - Investment Manager
Professional Overview
Friso Schmid is an experienced investment manager with a strong background in the startup ecosystem. He currently serves as an Investment Manager at Horizon Flevoland, where he leverages his expertise to identify and support promising early-stage ventures. Alongside his investment management role, Friso is the Founder of Startup Fountain and a Board Member of the Dutch Startup Association, further solidifying his position as a key player in the Netherlands' thriving startup community.
Experience Summary
Current Roles
Investment Manager, Horizon Flevoland (2024-09-01 to Present)
- Responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and managing investments in early-stage startups based in the Flevoland region of the Netherlands
- Provide strategic guidance and hands-on support to portfolio companies, helping them navigate growth challenges and unlock new opportunities
- Collaborate with the investment team to develop and implement the firm's investment strategy, ensuring alignment with the fund's objectives
Founder, Startup Fountain (2021-02-01 to Present)
- Established Startup Fountain, a platform that connects entrepreneurs with valuable resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities
- Curate and facilitate a network of industry experts, investors, and service providers to support the growth and success of early-stage companies
- Organize events, workshops, and initiatives to foster a vibrant startup ecosystem in the Amsterdam metropolitan area
Board Member, Dutch Startup Association (2024-01-01 to Present)
- Contribute to the strategic direction and policy advocacy efforts of the Dutch Startup Association, a prominent industry organization
- Collaborate with fellow board members to promote the interests of the startup community and drive positive change within the ecosystem
Career Progression
Prior to his current roles, Friso Schmid held various positions that have shaped his expertise in the startup and technology sectors. He served as a Product Owner at Rainforest Alliance, where he played a key role in developing and implementing digital solutions to support sustainable farming practices. He also co-founded two successful startups, Keezel and Jobsy, gaining valuable experience in entrepreneurship, product development, and growth strategy.
Earlier in his career, Friso held consulting roles at Capgemini and Thauris, where he honed his project management and problem-solving skills, working with clients across diverse industries.
Academic Background
Friso Schmid holds a Master's degree in Business Administration from the University of Amsterdam, where he specialized in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. His academic background has provided him with a strong foundation in finance, strategy, and emerging technologies, which he leverages in his current roles.
Areas of Expertise
- Investment management and portfolio optimization
- Startup ecosystem development and community building
- Product management and digital transformation
- Entrepreneurship and growth strategy
- Project management and problem-solving
- Industry knowledge in sustainability, technology, and venture capital
Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Friso Schmid has made significant contributions to the startup ecosystem in the Netherlands. As the Founder of Startup Fountain, he has facilitated countless connections between entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts, helping to accelerate the growth of early-stage ventures. In his role as an Investment Manager at Horizon Flevoland, Friso has successfully identified and supported promising startups, driving innovation and economic development in the Flevoland region.
As a Board Member of the Dutch Startup Association, Friso has played a pivotal role in advocating for the interests of the startup community, contributing to policy changes and initiatives that foster a thriving entrepreneurial environment.
Conclusion
Friso Schmid's diverse experience, entrepreneurial mindset, and industry expertise position him as a valuable asset in the investment management and startup ecosystem. With a proven track record of success, he continues to drive innovation and support the growth of early-stage companies, making a significant impact on the Netherlands' thriving startup landscape.
