Michal Smída’s entrepreneurial journey has taken a remarkable turn, evolving from building Twisto into a new chapter with RockawayQ. His story is one of transformation, innovation, and forward-thinking in the world of business and technology.
A Strong Start with Twisto
In 2013, Smída co-founded Twisto, a Buy-Now-Pay-Later solution that became a game-changer in the Czech e-commerce space. The company was ahead of its time, entering a market where online shopping was still in its infancy. By 2020, Smída’s company was acquired by Zip, eventually becoming part of a Turkish conglomerate.
RockawayQ: Catalyzing the AI Revolution
Now in charge of RockawayQ, Smída is leading a mission to help traditional B2B businesses transform through AI. “Companies either evolve or get left behind,” Smída states, noting that the rapidly changing business era demands digital and technological upgrades.
RockawayQ’s goal is clear: to invest in B2B companies and guide them through digital transformation, integrating AI to unlock growth potential locally and globally. The firm is not bound by the typical investment structure, RockawayQ focuses on long-term growth, working directly with businesses to scale operations.
A New Kind of Investment Firm
RockawayQ is a private equity division of Rockaway Capital, with an ambitious €20M fund that plans to increase to €50-100M in the coming years. The firm is looking for B2B companies with strong EBITDA and turnover in industries ranging from tech to manufacturing. Their approach is hands-on, viewing themselves as “late co-founders” who actively contribute to a company’s technological and organizational development.
The Power of Founder-to-Founder Connections
Smída’s wealth of experience leading startups like Twisto gives him a unique perspective on what it takes for businesses to thrive. He believes in founder-to-founder collaboration, where genuine partnerships drive innovation and growth.
Tech & AI: The Future of B2B
As RockawayQ continues to search for companies to invest in, AI and tech integration are at the heart of their strategy. Smída’s track record in fintech, particularly in AI-driven products, shows his commitment to shaping the future of business through technology.
With exciting projects in the pipeline, RockawayQ is on track to be a transformative force in B2B industries across Europe.
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