Thomas Schmidt Awarded “Business Angel of the Year 2022”
Thomas Schmidt, a renowned business angel from Leipzig, was awarded the prestigious “Business Angel of the Year 2022” title. The award, presented by Angels Netzwerk Deutschland (BAND), recognizes Schmidt’s exceptional ability to identify promising startups. Schmidt also received the “Golden Nose” for his keen sense in selecting successful ventures. The “Goldene Nase” award has been recognizing influential figures in the angel investment community for over two decades.
About Thomas Schmidt
Thomas Schmidt, originally trained as an electrical engineer, became a full-time business angel in 2021 after an extensive career as a serial entrepreneur and CEO. His experience includes founding and leading three software companies in Leipzig between 1991 and 2005. Following a successful exit in 2005, Schmidt served as CEO of TomTom Telematics and later contributed to the rise of Webfleet Solutions, now Europe’s leading B2B SaaS fleet management company under Bridgestone Mobility Solutions.
Schmidt’s Expertise and Portfolio
As a business angel, Schmidt’s knowledge of the startup ecosystem and the challenges founders face has shaped his success. His portfolio includes startups in areas like software, the Internet of Things (IoT), and automation, with a total of eight active investments. Schmidt’s expertise helps guide these startups both strategically and operationally, ensuring their long-term growth.
Startups in Schmidt’s Portfolio
Schmidt credits his success to the startups he supports. Among them are Actaport, Ducktrain, DeskNow, munevo GmbH, IO-Dynamics, Seventh, Peeriot GmbH, and PIONIX GmbH, all of which nominated him for the “Business Angel of the Year” award. Schmidt’s approach includes a focus on full commitment, empathy, pragmatism, and a hands-on approach to strategic growth.
Thomas Schmidt’s Impact on the Startup Community
Schmidt also praised the other top 5 angels nominated for the award, including Alf Arnold, Alexander Bruehl, Wilfried Gillrath, and Tobias Wittich, highlighting their contributions to advancing innovation in Germany. He emphasizes that successful startups need more than just financial support—they need mentors who can offer strategic guidance, a focus on sustainable growth, and the commitment to overcome the challenges they face.
Schmidt’s ongoing dedication to the startup ecosystem and his proven ability to identify and nurture future industry leaders make him a cornerstone of Germany’s entrepreneurial landscape.