Jim Mckelvey

Jim McKelvey is a prominent American entrepreneur and engineer, best known as the co-founder of Square, Inc., a revolutionary payment processing company. His journey began after graduating from Washington University in St. Louis, where he initially worked as a contractor for IBM while also pursuing his passion for glassblowing. In 2009, alongside Jack Dorsey, McKelvey launched Square, which transformed the way small businesses accept payments. The company’s innovative card reader design was recognized by the Museum of Modern Art in 2011, solidifying its impact on the retail landscape.

In addition to his work with Square, McKelvey has made significant contributions to the arts and education. He founded the Third Degree Glass Factory, a glass art studio that serves as a community hub for artists and enthusiasts. His commitment to education is further exemplified by the establishment of LaunchCode in 2013, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing technology apprenticeships to individuals without traditional credentials. This initiative has been instrumental in creating pathways for aspiring tech professionals, earning accolades for its positive impact on the St. Louis community.

McKelvey’s influence extends beyond entrepreneurship; he has also served as an Independent Director of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis since 2017, where he contributes to discussions on economic stability and financial innovation. His philanthropic efforts include a $15 million donation to Washington University, leading to the renaming of its engineering school in his honor, further emphasizing his dedication to fostering education and innovation.

As an author and lecturer, McKelvey shares his insights on entrepreneurship and technology, inspiring the next generation of innovators. His diverse career reflects a commitment to problem-solving and creativity, making him a key figure in both the business and artistic communities. Jim McKelvey continues to explore new ventures, aiming to empower others through technology and education, while leaving a lasting legacy in the fields he is passionate about.