Vanessa Nakate to Open Giving Black Conference 2026 With Climate Justice Keynote
2 weeks ago
United States Matt Forte is a former NFL running back who achieved records during his ten-year career and is now an analyst and entrepreneur.
Matt Forte is the founder of the What's Your Forte Foundation, which launched a $3 million business action in partnership with the Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives Finance Group to help Black entrepreneurs in underserved Chicago communities. The foundation also organized events like Pasta Via, inviting people to meet Matt Forte and support its initiatives.
Matt Forte founded Workhorse 22 Apparel, an athleisure brand, after his ten-year career as an NFL Running Back.
Matt Forte's wife, Danielle Forte, founded 828 Clothing, a maternity wear brand, with his encouragement.
Matt Forte was the guest of honor at a cooperative event in Chicago on June 13th, facilitated by MVP Sports Marketing.
Matt Forte discussed his work with small businesses, including his involvement with Chase for Business.
Matthew Garrett Forte was born on December 10, 1985, in Lake Charles, Louisiana. He attended Slidell High School, where he excelled in both football and track & field. Forte continued his football career at Tulane University, playing for the Tulane Green Wave from 2004 to 2007. During his senior year in 2007, Forte set multiple school records, including 2,127 rushing yards and 23 rushing touchdowns. His collegiate performance culminated in being named a Maxwell Award and Doak Walker Award semifinalist, and earning the Overall MVP award at the 2008 Senior Bowl.
Forte was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 2008 NFL draft, as the 44th overall selection. He quickly became a prominent player, setting franchise rookie records for rushing yards (1,238), receptions (63), and yards from scrimmage (1,715) in his debut season. Throughout his eight seasons with the Bears (2008–2015), Forte was recognized for his dual-threat ability as both a rusher and receiver, being named to the Pro Bowl twice in 2011 and 2013. He continued this career with the New York Jets for two seasons (2016–2017) before announcing his retirement in 2018.
Since retiring from professional football, Forte has transitioned into new roles. He joined NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow as an analyst, contributing his insights on the sport. Furthermore, Forte is an entrepreneur, having founded Workhorse 22 Apparel, an athleisure brand, and the What’s Your Forte Foundation. His foundation focuses on helping Black entrepreneurs in underserved Chicago communities. In 2023, Forte’s contributions to sports were recognized with his induction into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame.
Curious about our offerings or have inquiries? We're eager to assist!
Just complete the form, and we'll respond promptly.
