Craig Newmark is a prominent American internet entrepreneur and philanthropist, best known for founding the widely-used classifieds website Craigslist. His professional journey began as a computer programmer, where he honed his skills at major corporations such as IBM, Bank of America, and Charles Schwab. In 1995, he initiated a simple email list to share local events, which evolved into Craigslist in 1996, transforming the way people connect and exchange information online. Under his leadership, Craigslist grew from a hobby into a significant platform, officially becoming a for-profit company in 1999.

Newmark served as the chief executive officer of Craigslist until 2000, during which time he established the site as a go-to resource for classified ads and community engagement. His innovative approach to online classifieds not only democratized access to information but also set a precedent for user-driven content on the internet. Even after stepping down from daily operations, Newmark remained actively involved in customer service, addressing issues related to spam and scams, showcasing his commitment to user experience.

In addition to his entrepreneurial success, Newmark is a dedicated philanthropist. In 2014, he founded Craig Newmark Philanthropies, focusing on supporting journalism, cybersecurity, and veteran services. His contributions have exceeded $180 million, with significant donations to organizations like the Anti-Defamation League and the Poynter Institute, reflecting his commitment to ethical journalism and social responsibility.

Newmark’s influence extends beyond philanthropy; he serves on the boards of various non-profits, including Girls Who Code and Vets in Tech. His ongoing efforts to support military families and combat misinformation have earned him recognition, including being named one of Time magazine’s 100 people shaping the world. As he continues to pledge substantial donations to charitable causes, Newmark exemplifies the impact of leveraging technology for social good.