Jim McKelvey is an american serial entrepreneur, artist and philanthropist, mostly known for his popular invention, Square; a small device that serves as a card reader for smartphones and tablets.
McKelvey’s talks revolve around a broad range of topics regarding the implementation of technological innovations in businesses related to payments and software. He also discusses about education, scientific publishing, construction, printing, and glassblowing.
Jim McKelvey has founded at least seven businesses related to technology and crafts. Referring to personal experiences and local challenges, McKelvey provides a unique approach to problem solving in Silicon Valley.
Key business creations
Square
He is mostly known for inventing Square, inc. in 2009, a merchant services and mobile payment platform. the small device comes in the shape of a square that serves as a card reader attached to smartphones and tablets. The company was cofounded by Jack Dorsey, who later became twitter’s creator. Today, over 30 million users use this payment method. Since 2017 Square’s cash app started using bitcoin.
Third Degree Glass Factory
This is one of the major glassblowing art facilities in the States. McKelvey is also famous for writing the bestseller The Art Of Fire, a book on glass art.
Invisibly.
The recently founded company intends to change digital advertising by creating “a world where quality content creation is properly rewarded.” according to its website. The company facilitates micropayments for journalism and publishing.
Non-profit work & Philanthropy
Launchcode
Created in St. Louis, in 2013 - trains and prepares students to succeed in the technology field creating high paying employment opportunities for those who have low possibilities due to lack of financial resources. it was named "The Best Thing to Happen to St. Louis" by the St. Louis Riverfront Times.
Jim has also written two computer programming books and is a professor at Washington University in St. Louis. He also teaches and lectures internationally on art and entrepreneurship.
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