WallStreet TeamEverette Taylor, the dynamic CEO of Kickstarter, is redefining the art of leadership in the creative economy. Known for his entrepreneurial acumen and innovative mindset, Taylor has been a driving force behind Kickstarter’s mission to empower creators and bring bold ideas to life. His appointment as CEO in 2022 marked a pivotal moment for the company, as it sought to strengthen its position as the world’s leading crowdfunding platform.
Born and raised in Richmond, Virginia, Taylor’s path to success was anything but conventional. After dropping out of college, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery and resilience, building his career through sheer determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence. By the time he was in his early 20s, Taylor had already founded several successful businesses, cementing his reputation as a visionary entrepreneur.
Before joining Kickstarter, Taylor served as the Chief Marketing Officer at Artsy, a global platform connecting art collectors and galleries. Under his leadership, Artsy experienced exponential growth, reaching millions of users worldwide. His ability to drive business growth while staying true to an organization’s core mission made him a natural fit for Kickstarter’s leadership role.
As CEO of Kickstarter, Taylor has brought a renewed energy and focus to the platform. His leadership is centered on three key principles: accessibility, innovation, and community empowerment. Recognizing the platform's immense potential to democratize access to funding, Taylor has worked to expand Kickstarter’s reach to underrepresented communities, ensuring that creators from diverse backgrounds have the tools and resources they need to succeed.
One of Taylor’s primary goals has been to make crowdfunding more accessible and intuitive. By leveraging technology and data-driven insights, Kickstarter has introduced new features that simplify the process for creators and backers alike. These innovations include enhanced project analytics, personalized recommendations for backers, and streamlined tools for creators to manage their campaigns.
Taylor has also emphasized the importance of supporting projects that align with Kickstarter’s core values: creativity, community, and impact. From groundbreaking tech innovations to inspiring art installations, the platform continues to serve as a launchpad for ideas that challenge norms and push boundaries. Taylor’s vision extends beyond just funding; he aims to foster a global community of creators and supporters united by their passion for innovation.
Beyond his professional achievements, Everette Taylor is a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech and creative industries. As one of the few Black CEOs in the tech world, he uses his platform to address systemic barriers and inspire the next generation of leaders. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of creating opportunities for underrepresented voices.
Under Taylor’s leadership, Kickstarter has not only maintained its status as a leading crowdfunding platform but has also redefined its role in the creative economy. By blending business savvy with a deep commitment to social impact, Taylor has positioned Kickstarter as a force for good, empowering creators to turn their dreams into reality.
As the company looks to the future, Everette Taylor’s influence is shaping Kickstarter into more than just a platform—it’s becoming a movement. By championing innovation, fostering inclusivity, and prioritizing community-driven success, Taylor is ensuring that Kickstarter remains at the forefront of the creative revolution.
In an era where creativity and collaboration are more important than ever, Everette Taylor’s leadership serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. His journey from entrepreneur to CEO exemplifies what’s possible when passion meets purpose, and his work at Kickstarter is a powerful reminder that great ideas deserve to be realized.
