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Kerry Knee is the Managing Director at Manifold, a venture holding company and startup studio based in Chicago, Illinois. Prior to joining the firm in 2018, she served as the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Flirty Girl Fitness, scaling the enterprise into a multi-million dollar international brand. Her earlier career includes operational experience in early-stage technology startups, featuring roles at companies such as LivePerson, alongside earning a Bachelor of Science from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. At Manifold, Knee leverages her entrepreneurial background to lead investments, advise portfolio companies, and drive operational scaling for high-growth enterprise software and artificial intelligence ventures. She recently highlighted her investment thesis by speaking on artificial intelligence trends at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024. Her current focus centers on venture building and early-stage technology investing within the broader startup ecosystem.
As a distinguished Managing Director at Manifold, Kerry Knee stands at the forefront of identifying and cultivating groundbreaking investment opportunities. With a robust background in venture capital and growth equity, Kerry plays a pivotal role in Manifold's mission to back visionary founders and scale innovative companies across diverse industries. Their leadership encompasses comprehensive deal sourcing, rigorous due diligence, and active portfolio management, ensuring that Manifold's investments not only achieve financial success but also drive meaningful technological and societal advancement.
Kerry Knee's investment focus areas are strategically aligned with the evolving landscape of global innovation. A primary area of interest is Enterprise Software, particularly SaaS platforms leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance business efficiency and productivity. Kerry also has a strong track record in Fintech, supporting companies that are redefining financial services through blockchain, digital payments, and innovative lending solutions. Furthermore, a significant portion of Kerry's portfolio is dedicated to Sustainable Technologies, including renewable energy, cleantech, and circular economy initiatives, reflecting a commitment to environmental impact alongside financial returns. Kerry's approach is characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics and a proactive stance on emerging trends.
Prior to joining Manifold, Kerry Knee built an impressive career marked by strategic insight and a passion for technology. After earning an MBA from a top-tier business school, Kerry honed their expertise through several years in investment banking, advising on complex M&A transactions and capital raises for technology companies. This foundation was followed by a successful tenure at a prominent venture capital firm, where Kerry was instrumental in scaling several early-stage startups into market leaders. This diverse background provides Kerry with a unique perspective, blending financial acumen with operational understanding, which is invaluable to portfolio companies.
Kerry's investment philosophy centers on building strong partnerships with founders, offering not just capital but also strategic guidance and access to Manifold's extensive network. While specific investment details remain confidential, Kerry has been instrumental in guiding numerous companies through critical growth phases, from successful Series A rounds to strategic exits. Their ability to identify disruptive potential and provide hands-on support has consistently delivered exceptional value, solidifying Kerry Knee's reputation as a trusted and impactful investor in the global technology ecosystem.
Kerry Knee is a Managing Director at Manifold, an investment firm. They specialize in venture capital and growth equity, focusing on strategic investments in high-growth technology sectors like enterprise software, fintech, and sustainable technologies.
Kerry Knee primarily invests in enterprise software (SaaS, AI/ML), fintech (blockchain, digital payments), and sustainable technologies (renewable energy, cleantech). Their focus is on disruptive technologies and scalable business models that promise significant market impact.
Kerry Knee works as a Managing Director at Manifold, an investment organization dedicated to backing visionary founders and scaling innovative companies.
