Adam Smith
Investment Associate
Prior Experience
Prior Experience
- Project Engineer, John Moriarty & Associates
- Venture Partner, Score 3 Ventures
Education & Community
- UNC Kenan-Flagler, M.B.A
- James Madison University, B.E
About Adam
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO JOIN THE ZEAL TEAM?
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO JOIN THE ZEAL TEAM?
I spent 2 years working with the team as an MBA fellow before joining full time. What stood out was the mission, the people, and the work ethic. Zeal focuses on backing exceptional founders solving economic disparities through financial technology, healthcare, and the future of work and learning. The team is competitive in the best way and pushes each other to keep learning.
WHAT EXPERIENCES DO YOU BRING TO DRIVE IMPACT AT ZEAL?
WHAT EXPERIENCES DO YOU BRING TO DRIVE IMPACT AT ZEAL?
I bring an engineering background and experience overseeing large multifamily and mixed use projects, where I managed teams, budgets, and the adoption of technology to improve efficiency. That project management work gives me a practical lens on how products are built and scaled. I have also supported nonprofit fundraising and been active in the startup community by hosting events that create meaningful connections between founders and investors. These experiences shape how I approach venture, where I believe problem solving at scale and adaptability fuel innovation.
WHAT IS ONE THING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
WHAT IS ONE THING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I played college football at James Madison University and earned Associated Press (AP) All American honors.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE YOU LIVE BY?
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE YOU LIVE BY?
“Plan the work, work the plan” reminds me to stay process driven and focused while staying flexible enough to adjust.