Peter Thiel

Peter Thiel is a prominent entrepreneur and investor known for his significant contributions to the technology sector. He co-founded PayPal in 1998, serving as its CEO and leading it to a successful public offering in 2002. In 2004, Thiel made a landmark investment by becoming the first outside investor in Facebook, contributing $500,000 for a 10% stake. This early investment proved highly lucrative, as Facebook evolved into one of the world's leading social media platforms. Thiel also co-founded Palantir Technologies in 2004, a company specializing in data analysis and security software, where he continues to serve as chairman. His investment portfolio includes early funding for companies like LinkedIn and Yelp, showcasing his keen eye for promising startups. As a partner at Founders Fund, a Silicon Valley venture capital firm, Thiel has been instrumental in funding companies such as SpaceX and Airbnb. Beyond his business ventures, he established the Thiel Fellowship, which offers young entrepreneurs $100,000 to skip college and build their own companies, reflecting his commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Thiel's influence extends beyond the tech industry, as he has been an outspoken supporter of various political figures and causes, including his support for Donald Trump during the 2016 presidential election. His libertarian views and philanthropic efforts through the Thiel Foundation further underscore his multifaceted impact on both the business and political landscapes. Despite his significant wealth and influence, Thiel maintains a relatively private personal life, residing in Los Angeles, California, with his husband, Matt Danzeisen, and their child. His journey from a Stanford University graduate to a leading figure in Silicon Valley exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurship and visionary investment.