Laila Johansen, Business Angel
Professional Overview
Laila Johansen is an experienced Business Angel based in Copenhagen, Denmark, with a proven track record of supporting and investing in early-stage startups. As a co-founder and owner of Treibhaus ApS, she actively contributes to the growth and success of Nordic innovative companies. With her deep industry knowledge and strategic advisory expertise, Laila plays a pivotal role on the board of Nordic Secondary Fund I.
Experience Summary
Current Role
Business Angel, DanBAN - Danish Business Angels (2017-Present)
- Evaluates and selects high-potential startups for investment, leveraging her extensive market insights and entrepreneurial acumen
- Provides strategic guidance and mentorship to portfolio companies, helping them navigate key growth stages and overcome operational challenges
- Actively participates in the Danish startup ecosystem, connecting founders with valuable resources and networks
Co-Founder and Owner, Treibhaus ApS (2017-Present)
- Co-founded Treibhaus, a Copenhagen-based venture studio that incubates and accelerates early-stage startups
- Responsible for identifying promising investment opportunities, conducting due diligence, and managing the firm's growing portfolio
- Leverages her entrepreneurial expertise to guide Treibhaus' portfolio companies towards sustainable growth and success
Board Member, Nordic Secondary Fund I (2021-Present)
- Serves on the board of the Nordic Secondary Fund I, providing strategic oversight and guidance to support the fund's investment decisions
- Draws upon her extensive network and market knowledge to identify and evaluate attractive investment opportunities in the Nordic region
- Collaborates with the fund's management team to develop and implement growth strategies for portfolio companies
Career Progression
Prior to her current roles, Laila held several leadership positions in the technology and media industries, including:
- Interim Business Development Manager at IPM - Intelligent Pollutant Monitoring (2019-2020)
- Board Member at meploy (2018-2023)
- CEO, Co-founder and Owner at Hamonoya Aps (2003-2017)
- Manager, Interactive Media Department at PlayStation Europe (2000-2003)
- Nordic Marketing Manager, Sony PlayStation and PC games at Nordisk Film (1999-2000)
- Nordic Product Manager for PlayStation and Danish Marketing Manager at Nordisk Film (1995-1999)
Throughout her career, Laila has demonstrated a strong entrepreneurial spirit, successfully co-founding and leading several ventures, while also contributing to the growth and success of prominent industry players.
Academic Background
Laila holds a degree from a renowned Danish university, where she specialized in business administration and entrepreneurship. Her academic background has equipped her with a robust understanding of market dynamics, financial analysis, and strategic decision-making.
Areas of Expertise
- Early-stage startup investment and portfolio management
- Entrepreneurial ecosystem development and mentorship
- Strategic business advisory and growth strategy implementation
- Nordic technology and innovation trends
- Venture studio management and operations
Professional Impact
As a Business Angel and co-founder of Treibhaus, Laila has made significant contributions to the Nordic startup ecosystem. She has successfully invested in and guided several promising companies, helping them navigate critical growth stages and achieve measurable success. Laila's industry expertise and collaborative approach have earned her a reputation as a trusted advisor and influential figure within the Nordic startup community.
Conclusion
Laila Johansen's extensive experience as a Business Angel, combined with her entrepreneurial background and strategic advisory capabilities, positions her as a valuable asset to the Nordic startup ecosystem. Her unwavering commitment to supporting early-stage companies and her ability to identify and nurture promising investment opportunities make her a highly sought-after partner for founders and investors alike.