Jim McKelvey is a renowned American serial entrepreneur, artist, and philanthropist, best known as the co-founder of Square, an innovative mobile payment platform that revolutionized how small businesses process transactions. He is also an author, professor, and founder of several companies spanning technology, education, and the arts. With a career that blends creativity and technological solutions, Jim has empowered millions of entrepreneurs and transformed industries worldwide.
Jim McKelvey has founded at least seven companies, including Square, launched with Jack Dorsey in 2009. This groundbreaking device enables small businesses to accept card payments via smartphones and tablets, becoming one of the world’s leading platforms. He also founded Third Degree Glass Factory, a premier glass art center, and Invisibly, a company aimed at revolutionizing digital advertising with micropayments for quality content.
In 2013, Jim launched LaunchCode, a non-profit organization providing tech training and connecting students with high-paying job opportunities. He is the author of the bestseller *The Innovation Stack*, serves as an Independent Director of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, and teaches entrepreneurship internationally. His work seamlessly combines innovation, education, and entrepreneurial vision.
Jim McKelvey’s talks are inspiring and practical, appealing to entrepreneurs, business leaders, and technology enthusiasts. His storytelling style integrates personal experiences and actionable insights, motivating audiences to tackle complex problems with creativity and focus. He covers topics like innovation, technological development, and entrepreneurship, delivering strategies applicable to individuals and organizations striving for growth and differentiation.
Jim shares fascinating stories from Square’s early days, combined with historical examples of innovative companies. This talk inspires entrepreneurs to build unique businesses through bold ideas and strategies that challenge competition.
A call to action for attendees to start creating and experimenting. Jim provides practical advice on developing tech skills, joining innovative projects, and turning ideas into world-changing companies.
A detailed look at how Square transformed the financial landscape for small businesses. Jim explains the design and execution process and how to tackle global challenges with simple yet effective solutions.
Explore the core principles behind Jim’s successful ventures. Learn how to identify unsolved problems, generate disruptive ideas, and build sustainable businesses across industries.
Through initiatives like LaunchCode, Jim showcases how tech training can create opportunities, transform lives, and drive positive impact in local communities and economies.
If you’re looking for an inspiring talk on innovation, technology, or entrepreneurship, you can book Jim McKelvey through Thinking Heads. As the founder of Square and a tech visionary, Jim offers unique perspectives and actionable insights to turn ideas into real-world solutions. Contact Thinking Heads today to secure his participation in your next event.
1. Inquiry: Share your event goals and budget. We respond within 24 hours.
– Solid Contracts: Legal protection and clear clauses regarding cancellations.
– Plan B: Immediate backup support in case of unforeseen events.
– Fiscal Compliance: Proper invoicing and adherence to regulations.
– Keynotes: Main stage presentations (45-60 min).
– Fireside Chats: Dynamic, informal on-stage interviews.
– Panels: Expert roundtable discussions.
– Workshops: Executive sessions or private meetings.
– Virtual Events: High-quality webinars and online conferences.
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