Top Entrepreneurs You Should Know About In 2024 | Marketplace
Dive into the world of pioneering entrepreneurs who have reshaped their sectors with groundbreaking ideas, visionary leadership, and tactical prowess. Celebrated for their influential roles in advancing business and innovation, these entrepreneurs stand as paragons of success in the modern business arena, carving paths for future growth and setting new paradigms for excellence.
Stephen Scoggins
Stephen Scoggins, transitioning from a profound personal journey to an influential industry leader, has founded Unstoppable Solutions by Scoggins International Inc., a company set to redefine the landscape for early-stage entrepreneurs. Positioned as a master business startup strategist, Stephen’s latest venture draws from his vast experience to offer a strategic blueprint for scaling businesses to nine figures. At the heart of Unstoppable Solutions lies a commitment to transforming the entrepreneurial experience, focusing on nurturing transactional customer relationships into lifelong loyalties and turning early-stage ventures into formidable market players.
With Unstoppable Solutions, Stephen aims to equip entrepreneurs with the skills and insights necessary to navigate the challenges of business growth. The company, based out of Utah, specializes in identifying and leveraging the unique strengths of personal brands, a strategy critical for the 90% of thought leaders struggling to monetize effectively. Stephen’s understanding of the emotional dynamics of entrepreneurship—specifically, how isolation, pride, and ignorance can stymie business success—is central to his teaching. He advocates for a holistic approach to business strategy, one that prioritizes understanding and addressing the underlying behaviors driving business decisions.
The forthcoming release of “Unstoppable Startup” is highly anticipated, promising entrepreneurs a comprehensive guide to exponential growth. This initiative reflects Stephen’s ethos of empathy and strategic innovation, offering a course that distills his successful techniques for cultivating enduring client relationships and building scalable business models. Furthermore, Unstoppable Solutions is not just about business growth; it’s about creating a positive, impactful change in the entrepreneurs’ personal lives and the communities they serve.
Through his leadership at Unstoppable Solutions, Stephen Scoggins is setting a new standard for entrepreneurial success, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning, emotional intelligence, and a customer-centric approach. As he prepares to further share his insights through the “Unstoppable Show” and the “8-Figure Mindset” course, Stephen continues to inspire and enable the next generation of entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams and beyond.
Holly Little is a distinguished figure in the realm of business and corporate law, whose 25-year career is marked by an unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and client advocacy. Holly Little is a seasoned attorney with particular experience in life sciences and health care law, including all types of contracts, reimbursement issues, healthcare management, and compliance. Little’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her role as a founding partner of the boutique law firm Hill & Little, PLLC, and her current position as partner at the national law firm, Outside GC. Before joining Outside GC, Holly served for nearly 15 years as General Counsel and COO for a clinical research organization which conducted clinical trials and related services for major pharmaceutical sponsors, including Amgen, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, GSK and Sanofi. In this role, Holly led negotiations with sponsors, and drafted and finalized agreements for all phases of clinical development including clinical trial agreements, informed consent forms, contract research organization agreements, Master Services Agreements and other trial-related agreements. Holly advised on development issues including healthcare fraud and abuse, pharmacovigilance, regulatory, privacy and other matters relevant to the development of innovative investigational agents. Holly has significant experience and a strong working knowledge of the laws, regulations and industry standards governing clinical trials, including FDA regulations, ICH guidelines, GCP guidelines as well as data protection and privacy laws. Holly has also helped numerous professionals start and run medical practices and Med Spas.
Her notable tenure includes crafting rules for the Securities and Exchange Commission’s investment management division and serving as a Senior Associate at the international law firm, Morrison and Foerster. Her education includes an LLM from Georgetown University School of Law in Corporate & Securities Law, JD from Northeastern University School of Law, and a B.A. in Economics with honors from University of Massachusetts at Amherst. She is a valued advisor for Regulatory Compliance & Training, Business Startups, Corporate Governance and Life Sciences. Her community involvement further underscores her multifaceted leadership. Serving as the past Head of Advocacy for a Human Trafficking Ministry and contributing as a National Council Member of the American Film Institute highlight her dedication to societal welfare and the arts. Holly Little’s career is a testament to her skill in blending legal expertise with entrepreneurial acumen, making her an invaluable asset to any enterprise. Her ability to advocate, negotiate, and collaborate underscores her role not just as a top entrepreneur, but as a visionary leader committed to ethical practices and the betterment of her community.
Darren Mort is swiftly emerging as a pivotal figure in the intersection of family law and child advocacy. His innovative approach to mitigating the emotional, physical, and psychological impact of family conflicts on children, particularly those undergoing the strains of separation and divorce, sets him apart in his field. Mort’s unique contribution lies in his integration of legal expertise with multimedia resources to support children’s well-being during family transitions. His notable work includes being involved in the development of a parenting program, “Families in Transition” (FIT), which is being launched across the United States. This program, bolstered by the inclusion of Mort’s award-winning film “Tommy,” aims to educate parents involved in conflicts arising from parental separation, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing children’s needs above their own. The initiative is supported by the research and collaboration of Judge Cohan, Alicia Davis, and researcher Karey O’Hara, highlighting its foundation in both legal acumen and empirical evidence on its positive impact on parental behavior.
Currently, Mort is expanding his cinematic endeavors to further support families in conflict with a new short film titled “Millie,” set to focus on the impact of child trauma. Produced by the renowned Jane Liscombe, “Millie” is anticipated to be another significant resource for parents and children alike, reflecting Mort’s commitment to addressing complex family issues through accessible, empathetic narratives. The “Families in Transition Program” stands as a testament to Mort’s innovative approach to family law and child welfare. By offering a scalable, educational program designed for high-conflict situations, Mort and his collaborators are paving the way for more mindful parenting practices. This program not only aims to alter the dynamics of parental conflict but also aspires to foster a more positive future for the next generation. Darren Mort’s work transcends traditional legal practices, embodying a holistic approach to the challenges faced by families in transition. As he prepares for the release of his next children’s book and film “Millie” and continues to advocate for the FIT program, his influence on child welfare and family law is poised to grow, making him a key entrepreneur to watch in the coming year.
Elizabeth Menegon
Elizabeth Menegon is revolutionizing the way people approach pet ownership with her groundbreaking app, Hands2Paws. This innovative platform champions the critical importance of selecting the right dog breed that aligns with an individual’s lifestyle, sourced from reputable breed-specific associations, also known as parent clubs. Elizabeth’s mission is clear: to guide potential dog owners towards making informed decisions, prioritizing the compatibility of breed characteristics with the owner’s lifestyle.
Hands2Paws operates on the foundational belief that “Not every breed is for everyone,” directing users through a series of questions to match them with breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club for a harmonious pet-owner relationship. This approach ensures that each match is thoughtfully made, aiming for a lifelong bond between the pet and its new family. While adoption is a valued option within the app, it serves as a secondary feature, with the primary focus being on helping users find dogs through breed-specific associations, ensuring responsible and informed pet ownership.
Beyond Hands2Paws, Elizabeth’s entrepreneurial ventures showcase her diverse talents and commitment to innovation. Her natural product line, aimed at reducing stress through aromatherapy, and her bespoke amenity kits for private jets, yachts and luxury properties reflect her ability to identify and fulfill niche market needs.
Elizabeth is also at the forefront of advocating for better practices within the dog industry. Her initiatives targeting ethical breeding with a petition to regulate backyard breeding to the welfare of retired service dogs receiving pet insurance free of charge demonstrates her commitment to addressing industry challenges.
Looking forward, Elizabeth is dedicated to expanding the conversation on responsible pet ownership. She is driven by the vision of creating educational content and possibly a TV show based around the app and journey of individuals getting a purebred or a rescue. Elizabeth Menegon’s efforts to merge technology with conscientious pet ownership are setting new standards in the pet industry, establishing her as an entrepreneur with a mission to watch over the coming years.
Peter Ristevski
In the competitive sphere of accounting and financial consultancy, Peter Ristevski distinguishes himself as a trailblazer whose contributions transcend traditional business boundaries. As the CEO of Investment Plus Accounting Group, Ristevski’s profound impact is rooted in over twenty years of dedicated service in the accounting, finance, and property sectors. His academic journey, highlighted by a Master’s Degree in Commerce from the University of Western Sydney, complements his deep-seated expertise and positions him as a leader in his field. In the vast sea of over 10,000 accounting firms across Australia, Peter Ristevski also known as the “Financial Surgeon,” stands out not just for his expertise but for his innovative approach to tax planning and asset protection. At the helm of Investment Plus Accounting Group Peter has carved a niche that distinguishes him markedly from his peers—earning him the title of the “1% accountant.” Ristevski’s approach to financial management and business development is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail and an innovative strategy that prioritizes effective business structuring and astute tax planning.
His advocacy for robust business frameworks safeguards enterprises against unforeseen financial and legal challenges, demonstrating his commitment to client security and prosperity. His visionary leadership extends beyond the Australian market, steering Investment Plus Accounting Group towards strategic international growth, notably in Dubai and New Zealand. This expansion not only showcases Ristevski’s ambition but also his capability to navigate the complexities of global financial landscapes, offering tailored solutions that meet diverse client needs. Beyond his professional endeavors, Ristevski’s dedication to community service and development is evident in his active involvement in local initiatives and support for businesses in the Bankstown and Liverpool areas. His expertise has not only been sought after by the business community but has also been featured in notable publications and news outlets, affirming his status as a respected voice in the realms of property investment and financial strategy. Peter Ristevski’s career is a testament to his belief in continuous improvement, strategic innovation, and the power of effective financial stewardship. His leadership at Investment Plus Accounting Group not only drives the firm’s success but also significantly contributes to the broader economic and community development, marking him as a pivotal figure in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Josh Leavy
In the heart of San Francisco’s Ghirardelli Square, Josh Leavy is setting the bar high for the city’s entrepreneurial spirit. As the founder of SF Brewing Co.(SFBCo), Leavy is not only continuing a family tradition that dates back nearly a century but is also shaping the future of the local food and beverage scene. The Leavy family’s brewing roots trace back to 1923, when Josh’s great-grandfather, Miguel Gonzalez, founded the first industrial brewery, Mexicali Brewery, in Baja, California. Inspired by stories of Gonzalez’s pioneering spirit and the camaraderie among brewers, Josh embraced the craft. While researching for his college thesis, he fell deeply in love with the art of brewing. This passion didn’t just end with academic pursuits; it evolved into a thriving business. Before embarking on his brewing journey, Josh navigated the competitive tech landscapes of Salesforce, Box, and Twilio, where he climbed the ranks and honed his skills in innovation and strategic planning. These experiences have been pivotal in managing SFBCo, especially during challenging times. San Francisco’s food scene, like many others, has faced significant downturns in recent years. Amid local economic shutdowns that threatened countless establishments, Josh’s leadership at SFBCo was a beacon of resilience. Under his guidance, the brewery not only sustained itself but also saw growth—an achievement not many can claim in such trying times.
Today, Josh is steering SFBCo toward exciting new horizons. He is currently in contract negotiations to open a second brewery location, which promises to expand SFBCo’s distribution throughout California. But his vision extends beyond just brewing beer. In partnership with the city of Novato, he is also working on a groundbreaking project—a beer garden and food park designed to be a family-friendly hub featuring food trucks and local culinary talents. This venue aims to provide an authentic local food experience for the Sonoma and Marin communities and a supportive space for small food entrepreneurs. Josh Leavy’s innovative approach and dedication to community engagement make him a standout figure in San Francisco’s entrepreneurial landscape. As he prepares to expand his influence in 2024, both through SFBCo and his new ventures, Josh is certainly an entrepreneur to watch. With a legacy of resilience and a forward-thinking mindset, he is not just brewing beer; he is crafting the future of local enterprise.
Rommel Santos
Rommel Santos, CEO and Founder of SAM Global Capital, is a distinguished leader in the private equity sector, renowned for his strategic foresight and commitment to sustainable growth. Under his leadership, SAM Global Capital has emerged as a leader in sustainable energy development, with strategic investments across Southeast Asia in emerging markets such as The Philippines. Santos has been instrumental in spearheading transformative projects around important segments such as Solar renewable energy, which underscores the firm’s dedication to environmentally conscious investment strategies. As SAM Global Capital gears up for its new SPDS private funds, Santos’ rigorous focus on regulatory compliance and corporate governance is critical. His leadership is meticulously preparing the firm to attract significant institutional investments, setting the stage for a pivotal transformation that is expected to make a substantial impact on global financial markets.
Beyond environmental initiatives, SAM Global Capital’s investment strategy is robust, driving economic growth while adhering to the highest standards of ethical practices. The firm’s comprehensive involvement in strategic sectors not only enhances its operational footprint but also cements its role as a transformative force in the markets it serves. This strategic approach ensures that SAM Global Capital is well-positioned to capitalize on regional economic advancements, reinforcing its commitment to long-term value creation and sustainability. With Santos at the helm, the firm is not just navigating the present challenges but is actively shaping its future. His strategic leadership fosters a culture of innovation and sustainability that is setting new benchmarks in the competitive world of private equity. Santos’ vision for SAM Global Capital involves a meticulous blend of market insight, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to impacting the global landscape positively, ensuring the firm remains at the forefront of the industry. This dedication to shaping a sustainable and prosperous future makes SAM Global Capital a leader in the global market, poised for continued success and innovation.
Mike Larcher
Mike Larcher’s evolution from web developer to CEO of Outsourced epitomizes entrepreneurial vision and strategic agility in the global outsourcing landscape. Starting with a modest web development agency, Larcher discerned a rising demand for offshore talent among his clientele, prompting the founding of Outsourced in 2012. This strategic pivot marked the onset of extraordinary growth, with Outsourced expanding by over 40% annually in headcount. Specializing in providing dedicated remote staff and office-based teams, Outsourced meticulously recruits the top 5% of talent across various industries, setting itself apart with a unique staffing model where each employee is exclusively committed to a single client.
Headquartered strategically in the Philippines, Outsourced leverages minimal time differences and shared cultural affinities with neighboring regions to enhance communication and operational efficiency. Today, under Larcher’s leadership, Outsourced boasts a workforce of over 1,000 highly skilled professionals, catering to diverse clientele worldwide. Larcher’s advocacy extends beyond recruitment, challenging misconceptions about the quality of overseas talent and highlighting the strategic imperative of offshore outsourcing for fostering business growth and innovation. Outsourced’s role transcends staffing; it encompasses fostering staff retention and operational excellence, ensuring that businesses not only access top-tier talent but also utilize it efficiently to achieve strategic goals at reduced costs. Mike Larcher’s vision for Outsourced represents a paradigm shift in modern business practices, advocating for remote team management and embracing the advantages of a globally interconnected workforce. His leadership embodies the essence of Australian entrepreneurial spirit, propelling forward global staffing innovations with unwavering commitment to quality and strategic foresight.
Charlie Rothkopf
Charlie Rothkopf, a seasoned financier, has strategically ventured into the cryptocurrency sector with the establishment of CZR Fund L.P., emphasizing a robust approach to Bitcoin mining and blockchain investments. Rothkopf’s initiative marks a calculated extension of his financial acumen into a domain characterized by both high potential and volatility.
CZR Fund L.P. is distinguished by its dual focus on Bitcoin mining operations and the acquisition of Bitcoin as a strategic asset. This approach supports the critical infrastructure of the Bitcoin network, enhancing its security and functionality while providing investors with a diversified exposure to digital assets.
In addition to operational mining, the fund maintains a portfolio of Bitcoin, positioning it as both a hedge against market volatility and an asset poised for appreciation. This strategy is grounded in a rigorous compliance framework, adhering to regulations and overseen by industry-leading administrators, ensuring that the fund’s activities remain transparent and accountable.
The fund has negotiated exclusive rights to energy-efficient mining facilities in Missouri, which benefit from low-cost power and modern mining hardware, setting the stage for scalable and sustainable operations. This strategic asset base is complemented by selective investments in institutional-grade Bitcoin, acquired at advantageous rates to secure immediate value for investors.
Through these initiatives, Rothkopf’s CZR Fund L.P. not only capitalizes on immediate financial opportunities within the cryptocurrency market but also invests in the technological advancement of the blockchain ecosystem. Rothkopf’s strategic foresight and commitment to rigorous investment principles solidify his standing as a key figure in the evolving landscape of digital finance.
Disclaimer: The San Francisco Examiner newsroom and editorial were not involved in the creation of this content.