Alexis Ohanian
Alexis Ohanian
Co-Founder and Former Executive Chairman of Reddit
Alexis Ohanian is a renowned entrepreneur, investor, and advocate for digital and social innovation. Born on April 24, 1983, in Brooklyn, New York, Ohanian’s journey to success began at the University of Virginia, where he majored in commerce and history. It was during his time at university that he, along with his friend Steve Huffman, conceived the idea of Reddit, a social news aggregation and discussion website that would revolutionize online communities. Founded in 2005, Reddit quickly grew in popularity and was acquired by Condé Nast in 2006, cementing Ohanian’s status as a pioneer in the tech industry.
After Reddit, Ohanian continued to shape the digital landscape through various ventures. He co-founded the early-stage venture capital firm Initialized Capital in 2010, which has invested in numerous successful startups including Instacart, Coinbase, and Patreon. Known for his keen eye for promising startups and his commitment to supporting innovative entrepreneurs, Ohanian has become a prominent figure in the investment community. His influence extends beyond finance; he is a vocal advocate for net neutrality, online privacy, and the democratization of information.
Ohanian is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts and advocacy work. He has been a champion for paid family leave, a cause he took up passionately after the birth of his daughter with tennis superstar Serena Williams. Through his public speaking, writing, and social media presence, Ohanian continues to inspire and drive conversations about the future of technology, business, and social justice. His commitment to using technology to improve lives and his vision for a more equitable digital world make him a significant figure in contemporary entrepreneurship.