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Don Ritzen

Founder & CEO, Shift
Amsterdam, North Holland,Netherlands
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Don Ritzen's Overview

Total Experience61 years
CompanyShift
CountryNetherlands

Don Ritzen is a prominent figure in the European startup ecosystem, best known as the Co-founder and CEO of Rockstart, an early-stage investor and accelerator. With a strong passion for entrepreneurship and innovation, Don has been instrumental in empowering purpose-driven founders since Rockstart's inception in 2011. He focuses on supporting startups in sectors like AgriFood, Energy, and Emerging Technologies, helping them scale and make a positive impact. Don is recognized for his leadership in building robust support systems for early-stage companies and fostering a collaborative environment for innovation. His work involves connecting startups with capital, expertise, and an extensive international network.

Professional Summary

Don Ritzen's work history includes a series of influential roles in various companies. Here is a detailed list of his professional journey:

Shift - Founder & CEO (2022 to Present)
Rockstart - Founder and advisor (2022 to Present)
We Are Impact Collective - Founding Member (2023 to Present)
Refugees Forward - Advisory Board Member (2019 to Present)
Owlin - Early Stage Investor (2012 to Present)
PastBook - Early Stage investor (2012 to Present)
KokeRoo Tech B.V. - Shareholder & Advisor (2020 to Present)
HARBOUR.SPACE - Visiting Professor and Program Director High Tech Entrepreneurship (part-time) (2019 to 2022)
Moonshot Consultancy - Freelance (2019 to 2022)
3D Hubs - Early Stage Investor (2013 to 2021)

Notable Achievements

Co-founder and CEO of Rockstart

Co-founded Rockstart in 2011 and scaled it into a leading global accelerator and early-stage investor, supporting hundreds of startups in AgriFood, Energy, and Emerging Tech domains to achieve growth and impact.

Pioneer in European Startup Acceleration

Played a key role in shaping the early-stage investment and acceleration landscape in Europe, establishing Rockstart as a reputable institution for nurturing tech talent and purpose-driven ventures.

Champion of Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship

Consistently advocated for and invested in startups that aim to solve significant global challenges, emphasizing the importance of purpose alongside profit.

Expansion of Rockstart's International Footprint

Led Rockstart's expansion efforts, establishing its presence and programs across multiple countries and building a global network of mentors, investors, and partners.

Educational Background

2010, Master: International Economics and Business

Universiteit Utrecht - Year 2009

Yes, Economics and Social Sciences (minor)

Universiteit Utrecht - Year 2004

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Notable news
Hiring actively
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Company Overview

Shift
Total employees750
HeadquartersSan Francisco
Founded2014

Shift Technologies Inc. was an American e-commerce company focused on the used car market. It provided an online platform for buying, selling, and financing used cars, aiming to offer a transparent and convenient alternative to traditional dealerships. Services included vehicle inspections, test drives delivered to customers, and handling of paperwork. Shift went public in October 2020. However, the company faced significant financial challenges and market pressures, ultimately leading to its bankruptcy filing and the sale of its assets in 2023.

Shift Stock Information
Shift, Inc. is listed on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol SFT. The company went public on October 15, 2020

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