Guess who’s taking the business world by storm? It’s the young entrepreneurs of 2024, and they’re not just stepping onto the scene—they’re redefining it. Gone are the days when experience was measured in years. Today’s young business leaders are all about fresh ideas, bold moves, and a passion for innovation that knows no bounds.
We’re spotlighting seven young entrepreneurs making waves and creating a new ocean of opportunities. From tech wonders to green warriors, these young minds show us that the real magic happens when you blend youthful energy with a fearless approach to challenges.
These are the 7 Young Entrepreneurs Making Waves
1. Brennan Spellacy: CEO and Co-Founder of Patch.io
Imagine being in your late twenties and already changing the world. Meet Brennan Spellacy, a shining example among young entrepreneurs reshaping our planet’s future. At just 29, Spellacy has journeyed from a Shopify web developer to a trailblazer in the climate-tech arena, with the founding of Patch in 2020. This isn’t just a platform; it’s a revolution in environmental responsibility crafted by the hands of a visionary young entrepreneur.
Spellacy’s leap from e-commerce to environmental technology was more than a career shift; it was a bold declaration of his commitment to our planet. Patch is a testament to his belief that young entrepreneurs can lead the charge in making significant environmental impacts. This platform simplifies the complex world of carbon offset initiatives, connecting businesses with over 50 diverse and impactful climate projects, from oceanic health initiatives to forest conservation efforts.
Under the leadership of this young entrepreneur, Patch has not only soared but also inspired. Garnering an impressive $84 million in funding from industry giants like Andreessen Horowitz, Spellacy’s vision has received a resounding endorsement. This funding echoes the tech world’s confidence in young entrepreneurs like Spellacy, who are not just dreaming of a greener future but actively constructing it.
The impact of this young entrepreneur’s vision is undeniable. With more than 400 companies, including industry leaders like Autodesk, turning to Patch for their carbon neutrality objectives, Spellacy’s innovative platform is a real-world example of how young entrepreneurs are making significant strides in sustainable development. At 29, Brennan Spellacy isn’t just the founder of Patch; he’s a beacon of hope and a living proof that young entrepreneurs are at the forefront of creating a sustainable and healthier planet.
2. Harshita Arora: Co-founder of AtoB
At the young age of 24, Harshita Arora stands out as a luminary among young entrepreneurs. Her journey began with the creation of the Crypto Price Tracker app, a tool that rapidly gained popularity for managing cryptocurrency portfolios. This early success, culminating in an acquisition by Redwood City Ventures, was just the beginning for this determined young entrepreneur.
Now, Harshita has set her sights on transforming the trucking and transportation industry through her Bay Area tech startup, AtoB. This isn’t just another tech venture; it’s a groundbreaking endeavor to modernize a traditionally sluggish sector. With AtoB, Harshita is steering the trucking world into the future, making payment processes smoother and more efficient. It’s a game-changer, and the industry has taken notice. Backed by over $100 million from heavyweights like Google, Salesforce, and Uber, AtoB is more than a startup; it’s a beacon of innovation led by a visionary young entrepreneur.
But Harshita’s ambition doesn’t stop there. AtoB, under her co-leadership, has become a lifeline for over 24,000 American trucking companies. Imagine the complexities of fuel purchasing, payroll, taxes, and accounting, all streamlined by a single platform. In August 2023, this young entrepreneur’s vision attracted an additional $155 million, bringing AtoB’s total funding to an astonishing $230 million. This isn’t just funding; it’s a loud and clear vote of confidence in the power of young entrepreneurs like Harshita to revolutionize industries.
Harshita Arora, at 24, isn’t just reshaping how trucking businesses operate; she’s a shining example of how young entrepreneurs are not only dreaming of a more efficient world but actively building it. Her work simplifies complex systems, making a significant impact in an industry vital to our daily lives.
3. Shervin Dehmoubed: CEO of EcoPackables
At 28, Shervin Dehmoubed is not just an entrepreneur; he’s a young environmental hero at the helm of EcoPackables. His journey is a testament to how young entrepreneurs are transforming concern for our planet into innovative solutions. Witnessing the surge of online shopping during the pandemic, Shervin saw an opportunity amidst a crisis. The mounting waste from packaging wasn’t just a problem; it was a call to action for this young entrepreneur.
EcoPackables, born out of Shervin’s vision, is more than a company; it’s a crusade against environmental harm caused by packaging waste. Shervin’s brainchild has already made a colossal impact, rescuing over 12.5 million plastic bags from ending up in landfills in just a year. This achievement isn’t just a number; it’s a milestone in the eco-friendly movement led by young entrepreneurs.
The innovation at the heart of EcoPackables is its unique skinboard packaging. Crafted from recycled elements, this isn’t your everyday packaging material. It’s designed to re-enter the recycling chain effortlessly, embodying EcoPackables’ mission to close the loop in the waste cycle. Customizable and versatile, it’s a perfect match for a range of products, aligning eco-consciousness with consumer needs.
Shervin’s approach challenges the status quo of the delivery industry. Where most packaging contributes to environmental degradation, EcoPackables stands as a beacon of sustainable practice. It’s not just about being recyclable; it’s about a complete environmental ethos, ensuring everything from the materials used to the ease of curbside recycling is planet-friendly.
Since its inception in 2020, EcoPackables has caught the attention of big names like Ted Baker and Revolve. For Shervin, packaging is more than a protective wrapper; it’s the customer’s first interaction with a product. His aim? To make that first impression visually appealing and a statement of environmental responsibility.
Shervin Dehmoubed, at 28, is redefining packaging through EcoPackables. He exemplifies how young entrepreneurs can be at the forefront of ecological change, proving that business can be stylish and sustainable. EcoPackables isn’t just making packaging; it’s crafting a greener future, one package at a time.
4. Julien Turner and Justen Turner: Co-founder of Dreadhead Films
In the heart of Columbus, Ohio, a remarkable story of cinematic ambition unfolds with Julien and Justen Turner, brothers and young entrepreneurs who are redefining the film industry. At 25 and 21 years old, respectively, they are the creative force behind Dreadhead Films, a company making waves far beyond the Midwest.
These brothers aren’t just making movies; they’re crafting narratives that captivate and inspire. Their journey began not in the glitz of Hollywood but in the humble streets of Columbus, where their unique voice and vision took root. Julien and Justen’s passion for filmmaking led them to establish Dreadhead Films, a name inspired by a movie that sparked their imagination and now symbolizes their creative journey.
Their work, infused with originality and passion, has caught the attention of industry giants like Beats by Dre, Amazon, and Nike. In 2017, they made history as the youngest filmmakers commissioned by Sesame Street, a testament to their extraordinary talent. Despite their youth, the Turner brothers have already garnered awards and recognition, featuring on platforms like Good Morning America, The New York Times, CNN, and MTV.
But it’s not just about the accolades for these young entrepreneurs. Faced with the challenges of being the youngest in the business, they’ve remained steadfast in their vision. Instead of moving to Hollywood, Julien and Justen are committed to transforming Ohio into a filmmaking hub, mirroring Tyler Perry’s impact on Atlanta. Their ambition is to expand Dreadhead Films, bring longer projects to the Midwest, and nurture young talent in their home state.
The Turner brothers’ story is more than a tale of success; it’s a beacon of inspiration. It proves that with dedication, hard work, and a belief in one’s dreams, young entrepreneurs can make a significant impact, no matter where they start. Julien and Justen Turner are not just filmmakers; they are visionaries showing the world that the heart of filmmaking can beat as vigorously in Ohio as it does in Hollywood.
5. Diana Paredes: CEO and Co-Founder of Suade
At just 30 years old, Diana Paredes is a towering figure in the world of financial technology. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Suade, this young entrepreneur is revolutionizing how banks navigate the complex maze of regulations. Her journey from the high-stakes world of investment banking at Barclays and Merrill Lynch to the innovative realm of RegTech is a story of vision, ambition, and transformation.
Before Suade, Diana observed a critical gap in the financial sector: the need for technology that seamlessly integrates finance and regulations. Seizing this opportunity, she stepped away from her successful career to start her own company, marking the birth of a new era in financial technology.
Diana’s expertise in RegTech, a field she pioneered since 2014, places her at the forefront of a global movement. She’s not just developing tools; she’s shaping the future of finance. Her work extends beyond her company as she engages with regulators worldwide, ensuring a harmonious and effective adoption of modern technology in the financial sector.
Her impact, however, transcends the boundaries of technology. As a young entrepreneur, Diana is deeply committed to fostering diverse workplaces and agile governance. She’s a vocal advocate for gender equality, participating in high-level discussions with UK and EU governments. Her voice is powerful, advocating for change and inclusion in industries often dominated by uniform perspectives.
Diana’s path as a successful female entrepreneur in the tech world is a beacon for others. She believes in the power of technology to streamline processes and build a more sustainable economy. Through Suade, she’s putting this belief into action, using data to prevent financial crises and pave the way for a more resilient financial future.
In her role as a mentor, policy advisor, and fundraiser, Diana is more than a CEO; she’s a leader and a role model. Her journey exemplifies how young entrepreneurs like herself can harness technology to create significant, lasting change in the world.
6. Dominic May: Founder of CoastXP
At just 27 years old, Dominic ‘Dom’ May has already made a splash as a young entrepreneur with CoastXP, his innovative marine adventure company. Founded in 2018, CoastXP is more than a business; it’s the embodiment of Dom’s lifelong passion for the ocean and its rich tapestry of history, Aboriginal heritage, and diverse marine life.
Dom’s journey to founding CoastXP is a tale of ambition and love for the sea. Starting as a scuba diving instructor, he honed his skills and knowledge in marine tourism across Australia’s famed coastal destinations. His deep connection to the ocean and entrepreneurial spirit led him to create an experience unlike any other while studying Business and Innovation/Entrepreneurship at the University of Newcastle.
CoastXP is Dom’s dream brought to life, offering guests a unique way to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of Newcastle and the Hunter region. His innovative approach to marine tourism is not just about sightseeing; it’s an immersive experience that intertwines adventure with education and conservation.
Under Dom’s leadership, CoastXP has grown from a one-person operation to a team of five, expanding its reach to land and water tours. Their offerings have extended beyond Newcastle to Lake Macquarie, highlighting Dom’s ability to grow and diversify his venture. In recognition of his contributions to local tourism, Dom was honored as the 2023 Newcastle Young Citizen of the Year, a testament to his impact as a young entrepreneur in the industry.
Dom’s background is as varied as it is impressive, including a stint in investment banking and an enriching internship at Tourism Australia. These experiences, coupled with his skill as a vessel Master, have shaped Dom into a seasoned professional in the marine tourism field.
Since its official launch on June 22, CoastXP has exceeded even Dom’s high expectations. For him, the joy lies in being on the water every day, sharing the wonders of the coastline with others. CoastXP’s offerings, including coastal sightseeing, whale watching from June to November, and daily tours from Honeysuckle Foreshore, are a testament to Dom’s vision and dedication.
Dominic May’s story is a vibrant example of the essence of young entrepreneurship. Turning a passion into a thriving business, navigating challenges with determination, and inspiring others to explore and appreciate the natural world.
7. Dr Bliss Cavanagh: Founder of Creative Sensory Spaces
At the age of just 29, Dr. Bliss Cavanagh stands as a beacon of innovation and compassion in the entrepreneurial world. As the founder of Creative Sensory Spaces, she has embarked on a mission to enhance well-being through unique, evidence-based sensory experiences. Her journey is a story of business acumen, personal triumph, and empathy.
Bliss’s venture took root during her Bachelor of Fine Art at the University of Newcastle, an endeavor deeply influenced by her own life experiences. Diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome at the tender age of nine, Bliss found herself navigating the complexities of this condition. During her academic exploration, she stumbled upon a revelation that would shape her future. Through sensory-based art, she created her first multi-sensory installation, a space that unexpectedly provided significant relief from her Tourette’s symptoms.
This personal breakthrough marked the beginning of something much larger. As others visited her installation, they, too, experienced a profound sense of happiness, relaxation, and engagement. It was these reactions that ignited a spark in Bliss, a realization of the broader impact her work could have. Thus, Creative Sensory Spaces was born, a testament to a young entrepreneur’s vision of harnessing art for healing.
Bliss’s journey was further fueled by her participation in the I2N’s Female Founders Program, an experience that was both inspiring and instrumental in her entrepreneurial growth. With a Ph.D. in her arsenal, Bliss leads Creative Sensory Spaces with a unique blend of academic rigor and creative flair.
Under her guidance, the company specializes in designing comprehensive sensory room setups tailored for businesses, schools, and organizations. Bliss’s approach is multifaceted, intertwining elements of receptive arts engagement, restorative environmental design, sensory modulation, and positive psychology. Her work at Creative Sensory Spaces is more than creating environments; it’s about crafting experiences that touch lives, driven by a young entrepreneur’s deep understanding of the power of sensory experiences.
Conclusion
The journeys of these young entrepreneurs, from Dominic May’s marine adventures to Dr. Bliss Cavanagh’s sensory innovations and Diana Paredes’ tech transformations to the Turner brothers’ cinematic feats, are not just individual success stories. They are powerful reminders that age is no barrier to making a significant impact. These young visionaries are reshaping their respective industries, breaking new ground, and setting a high bar for what it means to be a young entrepreneur.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that the world of entrepreneurship is in capable and innovative hands. This new generation is ready to redefine norms, challenge conventions, and build enduring legacies. Their collective accomplishments signal a bright, diverse, and dynamic future for business, inspiring the next wave of young entrepreneurs to dream big and reach even higher.