Suzanne Reade
Principal, Chicago Poland Ventures
Greater Chicago Area
Invests in
Skills
Work Experience
Principal
2020
US Poland Ventures is a cross border investment fund, located in Chicago. The fund assists innovative companies in both the United States and Poland. We target early stage companies in a variety of industries that plan to grow in the EU market though a Poland location. Soon, a Chicago-Warsaw innovation center will assist Poland-based companies that aim to expand into the US market. Our management team includes Marek Kowalczyk and Andy Koziarski, who have created successful international businesses. Through the Chicago ArchAngels, which has a strong portfolio of over 60 innovative companies from around the country, we have a pipeline of companies that are interested in Europe.
President
2012
The Chicago ArchAngels considers a wide range of companies seeking funding, primarily in the seed and Series A rounds. The group has invested in over 60 companies from around the country and portfolio growth is strong. In a typical year, the Chicago ArchAngels will invest in 8-10 companies, for a total amount of about $1.5 million. Presenters are recommended by our investor network. Most members have experience in building companies, so they can offer business expertise as well as connections.
2009 - 2012
Board Member
2009 - 2012
PWCC is a premier women's networking organization, with approximately 300 members. PWCC holds monthly networking meetings at the Union League Club in Chicago.
2003 - 2011
Trustee
2003 - 2011
The Chicago Waldorf School is an independent school, affiliated with the rapidly growing international Steiner and Waldorf schools. It offers a comprehensive education from early childhood through high school, fostering creative, independent thinking. Its strong academic program incorporates art to foster deeper intellectual, emotional and spiritual growth. Chaired committees to form an administrative audit, select a new administrator, and expand development.
2000 - 2008
President
2000 - 2008
Produced national workshops, seminars and other programs that helped insurance companies improve and expand their marketing and underwriting in urban and multicultural markets. Initiated a predictive modeling study on new underwriting data.
1985 - 1999
Manager and Vice President, Public Affairs
1985 - 1999
Developed and coordinated the company's first national public affairs program. Through a multi-department initiative, the public affairs committee identified emerging issues that afffected the company's key business lines, and developed effective corporate response strategies.