Matt Mullenweg is a prominent American web developer and entrepreneur, best known as the co-founder of WordPress, the open-source web publishing software that powers over 43% of the internet. His journey began in 2002 when he started contributing to b2, an open-source blogging platform. In 2003, at just 19 years old, he launched WordPress with Mike Little, which quickly gained traction and became a cornerstone of online publishing. Mullenweg’s vision for democratizing publishing has significantly shaped the digital landscape.
In 2004, Mullenweg joined CNET, where he was able to develop WordPress part-time. This role allowed him to refine his skills and expand his influence in the tech community. By 2005, he left CNET to focus entirely on WordPress, leading to the founding of Automattic, the company behind WordPress.com and other innovative products like Jetpack and WooCommerce. Under his leadership, Automattic has grown into a global company with over 1,900 employees working remotely across more than 90 countries.
Mullenweg is also known for his annual “State of the Word” address, where he shares insights on WordPress’s progress and future. His contributions to the open-source community have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Heinz Award for Technology, the Economy, and Employment in 2016. He has also invested in various startups through his firm, Audrey Capital, further demonstrating his commitment to fostering innovation in technology.
Throughout his career, Mullenweg has been an advocate for open-source principles and has engaged in public discussions about the future of web development. His dedication to improving online publishing and commerce continues to inspire developers and entrepreneurs worldwide, making him a key figure in the tech industry.