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Forbes 30 Under 30: 600 Leaders Raise $3.8B

12/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Forbes 30 Under 30 Class of 2026 spotlights 600 leaders who have raised $3.8 billion in funding and gained more than 200 million social media followers.
Notable athletes include Coco Gauff (tennis star), Jalen Hurts (NFL MVP), Saquon Barkley (NFL MVP), Aliyah Boston (WNBA player), and Paige Bueckers (WNBA player).
Caitlin Clark's absence raises questions about selection in a class that includes 14 women and 16 people of color.

History

Historical Context

Forbes launched its 30 Under 30 list in 2016, highlighting young innovators and their growing influence in entrepreneurship. In that inaugural year, 600 honorees raised $1.3 billion, reflecting a shift towards recognizing diverse leadership. By 2022, the trend continued, with 600 leaders raising $3.8 billion, underscoring the increasing financial power of youth, particularly among women and people of color.

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Story summary

Forbes 30 Under 30 Class of 2026 spotlights 600 leaders who have raised $3.8 billion in funding and gained more than 200 million social media followers.
Notable athletes include Coco Gauff (tennis star), Jalen Hurts (NFL MVP), Saquon Barkley (NFL MVP), Aliyah Boston (WNBA player), and Paige Bueckers (WNBA player).
Caitlin Clark's absence raises questions about selection in a class that includes 14 women and 16 people of color.

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