Ryan L. Smith

Executive Vice President

2023 - Current

Co-Founder

2007

Restoring Our Character is a not-for-profit organization focused on introducing inner-city boys to various experiences, skills, and opportunities that help them bridge the gap from a life of poverty to a life of prosperity. We organize seminars targeted at young males ages 8 - 16 for community centers throughout Chicago. The full day seminars include include self-esteem, leadership, creative, and conflict resolution workshops Our last seminar had over 500 attendees.

Senior Vice President

2017 - 2023

EquiTrust Life Insurance Company is an insurance company owned by Magic Johnson Enterprises. The company is a national carrier of competitive, client-friendly annuity and life insurance products, available through a national network of independent sales representatives. EquiTrust's Current AUM: ~$26 Billion Executive Committee and Steering Committee member

Board Member

2016 - 2019

Harlem Tech Fund (HTF) is the community-focused non-profit arm of Uncharted Play, serving Harlem through STEM and innovation. HTF aims to usher in a new Harlem Renaissance—one that utilizes technology as the medium for self-expression, self-actualization, and community revitalization. HTF fosters the growth of a tech ecosystem for underrepresented communities in Harlem. It empowers current Harlem residents with the tools they need to successfully remain in and transform their communities for the better.

Director of Investments

2013 - 2018

Consultant

2013 - 2013

Consultant

2013 - 2013

Venture Capital Investor

2012 - 2013

Bronze Investments is a $45 million venture fund that makes and manages investments that align strong financial returns with positive social impact. Our investment strategies focus on early stage technologies (Healthcare IT, Education, Consumer Finance), real estate development, and energy efficiency.

Venture Capital Fellow

2012 - 2012

Senior Associate, Private Equity

2011 - 2012

IMB Development Corporation is a minority-owned, diversified company that delivers innovative supplier diversity solutions to large corporations and government entities through direct investment and advisory services. IMB seeks to buy companies with revenues of $25 million to $500 million that are existing corporate and government suppliers. Our mission is to build world-class, large-scale suppliers that address America’s diversity procurement spending gap and create maximum economic and social value for the U.S. economy, our corporate and government partners, our investors and the diverse communities we serve.