Ivo Valenta
Ivo Valenta is a Czech entrepreneur who founded SYNOT Group in 1991 alongside his father and brother. The company began as a small family business in Uherské Hradiště, Czech Republic, and has since expanded its operations internationally, employing approximately 3,000 people. SYNOT Group operates in various sectors, including gaming, IT, real estate, and tourism.
Bio
Early Career and Business Development
Valenta entered the gaming industry in 1989 by importing the first gaming machines from Germany. Recognizing the potential for growth, he established SYNOT Group two years later. Initially focusing on the Czech market, Valenta took on the role of expanding the company’s reach internationally, while his father and brother managed domestic operations.
Under Valenta’s leadership, SYNOT Group diversified its portfolio beyond gaming. The company ventured into IT services, real estate development, and tourism. Notable projects include the renovation of historic hotels and the development of leisure facilities in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Philanthropy
Valenta established the SYNOT Foundation to support various social initiatives. The foundation has contributed to healthcare, education, cultural preservation, and support for individuals with disabilities. Over the years, it has donated more than a billion Czech crowns to various causes.
Political Involvement
In addition to his business endeavors, Valenta served as a Senator in the Czech Republic, representing the Uherské Hradiště district. His tenure in politics complemented his business activities, particularly in advocating for regional development.
Valenta continues to oversee SYNOT Group’s strategic direction, focusing on innovation and expansion into new markets. The company maintains a presence in over 20 countries, offering products and services in both land-based and online gaming sectors.