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'''Reid Garrett Hoffman''' (born August 5, 1967) is an American Internet entrepreneur, venture capitalist, podcaster, and author. He is best known as the co-founder and former executive chairman of [[LinkedIn]], the professional networking platform that grew to become one of the largest business-oriented social networks in the world before its acquisition by [[Microsoft]]. Hoffman served as a partner at the venture capital firm [[Greylock Partners]], where he invested in a range of technology companies during the growth of [[Silicon Valley]]'s startup ecosystem. Beyond his work in technology and finance, Hoffman has been active in public policy and political advocacy, serving as a member of organizations including the [[Bilderberg Group]] and the [[Council on Foreign Relations]]. He is a co-founder of [[Inflection AI]] and [[Manas AI]], and sits on the boards of [[Microsoft]] and the [[Arc Institute]]. Hoffman is also the chairman of venture capital firm Village Global. As an author, he has written books on entrepreneurship and the future of work, including ''The Start-up of You'', which appeared on ''The New York Times'' Best Sellers list in 2012. His career has spanned the early consumer Internet era through the rise of artificial intelligence, and he has been a public commentator on issues at the intersection of technology, society, and democratic governance.
'''Reid Garrett Hoffman''' (born August 5, 1967) is an American Internet entrepreneur, venture capitalist, podcaster, and author. He is best known as the co-founder and former executive chairman of [[LinkedIn]], the professional networking platform that grew into one of the largest business-oriented social networks in the world before its acquisition by [[Microsoft]]. Beyond LinkedIn, Hoffman built a prominent career in venture capital as a partner at [[Greylock Partners]], where he backed numerous technology companies during formative stages of growth. He is also a co-founder of [[Inflection AI]] and [[Manas AI]], and serves on the boards of [[Microsoft]] and the [[Arc Institute]]. Hoffman has been an active voice in American public life, contributing to political campaigns and organizations, and writing extensively on topics at the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and society. His career, which began in Silicon Valley in the mid-1990s, has spanned the founding era of major Internet companies, the rise of social networking, and the emergence of artificial intelligence as a transformative force.


== Early Life ==
== Early Life ==


Reid Garrett Hoffman was born on August 5, 1967, in [[Palo Alto, California]], a city at the heart of what would later become known as [[Silicon Valley]].<ref>{{cite web |title=LinkedIn Management |url=https://www.linkedin.com/static?key=management |publisher=LinkedIn |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Growing up in the vicinity of [[Stanford University]] and the nascent technology industry of the San Francisco Bay Area, Hoffman was exposed from an early age to the culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that characterized the region. Details about his parents and family background remain limited in publicly documented sources, though Hoffman has spoken in interviews about developing an early interest in ideas, intellectual debate, and the potential of networks to shape human interaction.
Reid Garrett Hoffman was born on August 5, 1967, in [[Palo Alto, California]], a city situated in the heart of what would become known as [[Silicon Valley]].<ref name="linkedin_mgmt">{{cite web |title=LinkedIn Management |url=https://www.linkedin.com/static?key=management |publisher=LinkedIn |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area placed Hoffman in proximity to the burgeoning technology industry that would later define his professional life. Details about his parents and family background are limited in publicly available records, though his upbringing in one of the most technology-rich regions of the United States provided early exposure to the culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.


Hoffman attended Stanford University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. His time at Stanford coincided with a period of rapid transformation in the technology sector, as personal computing and the early Internet were beginning to reshape communication and commerce. After completing his undergraduate studies, Hoffman pursued graduate education in the United Kingdom. He enrolled at [[Wolfson College, Oxford]], where he earned a Master of Studies (MSt) degree. His studies at Oxford focused on philosophy, and this academic grounding in humanistic inquiry would later inform his approach to technology, ethics, and the role of innovation in society.<ref>{{cite web |title=LinkedIn Management |url=https://www.linkedin.com/static?key=management |publisher=LinkedIn |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Hoffman developed intellectual interests from a young age that would later inform his multifaceted career. He was drawn to questions about how human societies function, how networks form, and how individuals can create large-scale impact — themes that would recur throughout his career as an entrepreneur, investor, and author. His early intellectual development was shaped by the unique environment of the Bay Area during the 1970s and 1980s, a period during which the personal computing revolution was taking root in the garages and offices surrounding Stanford University and its affiliated research institutions.


Hoffman's educational background, combining technology-oriented study at Stanford with philosophical training at Oxford, shaped his subsequent career in ways that distinguished him from many of his peers in Silicon Valley. He would frequently reference the importance of humanistic thinking in the development and deployment of technology, and his intellectual interests informed both his entrepreneurial ventures and his public commentary on the responsibilities of technologists in democratic society.
== Education ==


== Education ==
Hoffman pursued his undergraduate studies at [[Stanford University]], where he earned a [[Bachelor of Science]] degree.<ref name="linkedin_mgmt" /> Stanford, with its deep connections to Silicon Valley and its tradition of fostering entrepreneurship among its students and faculty, provided Hoffman with both an academic foundation and a network of peers who would go on to become influential figures in the technology industry.


Hoffman received his Bachelor of Science degree from [[Stanford University]], one of the leading research universities in the United States and a major incubator for technology entrepreneurs. He subsequently attended [[Wolfson College, Oxford|Wolfson College]] at the [[University of Oxford]], where he earned a Master of Studies degree.<ref>{{cite web |title=LinkedIn Management |url=https://www.linkedin.com/static?key=management |publisher=LinkedIn |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> His graduate work at Oxford was focused on philosophy, an unusual academic path for someone who would go on to build a career in technology startups and venture capital. Hoffman has credited his philosophical training with helping him think critically about the ethical and societal implications of technology, a theme that has recurred throughout his public statements and writings.
Following his time at Stanford, Hoffman crossed the Atlantic to study at [[Wolfson College, Oxford|Wolfson College]] at the [[University of Oxford]], where he earned a [[Master of Studies]] (MSt) degree.<ref name="linkedin_mgmt" /> His studies at Oxford reflected his interest in intellectual inquiry beyond the purely technical, encompassing philosophy and broader humanistic questions. This combination of a Stanford engineering education and an Oxford humanities background gave Hoffman an unusual intellectual profile among Silicon Valley entrepreneurs — one that blended technological fluency with a deep interest in human systems and social structures. Hoffman has credited his time at Oxford with shaping his thinking about how societies and networks operate, themes that would later become central to both LinkedIn and his writing.


== Career ==
== Career ==


=== Early Career and PayPal ===
=== Early Career and Silicon Valley Beginnings ===
 
After completing his education at Oxford, Hoffman returned to Silicon Valley and entered the technology industry during the mid-1990s, a period of explosive growth driven by the commercialization of the Internet. He joined [[Apple Inc.|Apple Computer]], where he gained early experience in the technology sector. Hoffman then moved to [[Fujitsu]], further broadening his understanding of the technology business.
 
In 1997, Hoffman co-founded SocialNet.com, one of the early online social networking services. SocialNet was designed to connect people for dating, professional networking, and shared activities. Though SocialNet did not achieve widespread commercial success, the experience proved formative for Hoffman, providing him with direct knowledge of the challenges and opportunities inherent in building online social platforms. The lessons learned at SocialNet would directly inform his later, more successful venture with LinkedIn.
 
During this period, Hoffman also became involved with [[PayPal]], the online payment company that became one of the most significant startups of the late 1990s and early 2000s. He served on PayPal's board of directors and was part of its executive team. PayPal's founding group, which included figures such as [[Peter Thiel]], [[Elon Musk]], and [[Max Levchin]], became known as the "[[PayPal Mafia]]" due to the subsequent success of its members in founding and funding numerous other technology companies. Hoffman's involvement with PayPal connected him to a network of entrepreneurs and investors who would become central figures in Silicon Valley for decades.
 
=== Founding LinkedIn ===


After completing his studies at Oxford, Hoffman returned to the United States and entered the technology industry during the mid-1990s, a period of explosive growth in Internet-based businesses. He was among the group of early Internet entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley who would go on to found or join some of the most influential companies of the era. Hoffman joined [[PayPal]], the online payments company, where he served as an executive vice president. PayPal became one of the defining companies of the early Internet economy, and its founding team — often referred to informally as the "PayPal Mafia" — went on to start or invest in numerous major technology companies. Hoffman's experience at PayPal provided him with both operational expertise in scaling a technology company and a network of relationships that would prove instrumental in his later ventures.
In December 2002, Hoffman co-founded [[LinkedIn]], a professional networking platform, along with Allen Blue, Konstantin Guericke, Eric Ly, and Jean-Luc Vaillant. The site officially launched on May 5, 2003. LinkedIn was built on the premise that professional relationships and networks could be managed, cultivated, and leveraged through an online platform — an idea that drew directly on Hoffman's earlier experience with SocialNet.com and his broader intellectual interest in the power of human networks.<ref name="linkedin_mgmt" />


=== Founding of LinkedIn ===
LinkedIn grew steadily in the years following its launch, distinguishing itself from other social networking platforms of the era — such as [[Friendster]] and later [[MySpace]] and [[Facebook]] — by focusing exclusively on professional relationships rather than personal social connections. The platform allowed users to create professional profiles, connect with colleagues and industry contacts, search for jobs, and recruit talent. This focus on the professional sphere gave LinkedIn a distinct value proposition and a revenue model built around recruitment services, premium subscriptions, and advertising.


In 2002, Hoffman co-founded [[LinkedIn]], a social networking platform designed specifically for professional use. The site launched in May 2003 and was among the earliest major social networking services on the Internet. Unlike platforms oriented toward personal social interaction, LinkedIn was built around professional identity, career networking, and business relationships. Hoffman served as the company's chief executive officer during its early years and subsequently became its executive chairman.<ref>{{cite web |title=LinkedIn Management |url=https://www.linkedin.com/static?key=management |publisher=LinkedIn |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Hoffman served as LinkedIn's chief executive officer during its early years before transitioning to the role of executive chairman, a position that allowed him to focus on the company's long-term strategic direction while day-to-day operations were managed by other executives. Under Hoffman's leadership and strategic guidance, LinkedIn expanded its user base from a small network of Silicon Valley professionals to a global platform with hundreds of millions of members across virtually every industry and country.


Under Hoffman's leadership and strategic vision, LinkedIn grew rapidly, attracting millions of users who used the platform to manage professional connections, seek employment, and share industry knowledge. The company went public in 2011, and its initial public offering was one of the most closely watched technology IPOs of the year. LinkedIn's growth continued in the years following its IPO, and the platform became an essential tool for recruiters, job seekers, and professionals across industries worldwide.
LinkedIn went public in May 2011, and its initial public offering was one of the most closely watched technology IPOs of that year. The company's stock price surged on its first day of trading, reflecting strong investor confidence in the platform's growth potential and business model.


In 2016, [[Microsoft]] announced its acquisition of LinkedIn in a deal that represented one of the largest technology acquisitions in history. Hoffman, who had transitioned from an operational role to serving on LinkedIn's board, became a member of Microsoft's board of directors following the acquisition.<ref>{{cite news |last= |first= |date= |title=LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman, Chan Zuckerberg... |url=http://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/news/2016/11/11/linkedin-founder-reid-hoffman-chan-zuckerberg.html |work=San Jose Business Journal |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> His continued involvement with both LinkedIn and Microsoft placed him at the center of debates about the role of major technology platforms in professional life and the broader economy.
In 2016, [[Microsoft]] announced its acquisition of LinkedIn for approximately $26.2 billion, one of the largest technology acquisitions in history at that time. The deal underscored the value of the professional networking platform that Hoffman had co-founded more than a decade earlier. Following the acquisition, Hoffman joined the Microsoft board of directors, a position he continues to hold.<ref>{{cite web |title=Trump Calls for Removal of Susan Rice from Netflix Board; What About Reid Hoffman at Microsoft? |url=https://nlpc.org/corporate-integrity-project/trump-calls-for-removal-of-susan-rice-from-netflix-board-what-about-reid-hoffman-at-microsoft/ |publisher=National Legal and Policy Center |date=2026-02-23 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


=== Venture Capital at Greylock Partners ===
=== Venture Capital: Greylock Partners ===


In 2009, Hoffman joined [[Greylock Partners]], a prominent Silicon Valley venture capital firm with a history of investing in technology companies. As a partner at Greylock, Hoffman invested in a range of startups and growth-stage companies, leveraging his experience as an entrepreneur and his extensive network within the technology industry. His investments and advisory roles at Greylock positioned him as one of the most influential figures in the venture capital ecosystem.
In 2009, Hoffman joined [[Greylock Partners]], a prominent Silicon Valley venture capital firm, as a partner. At Greylock, Hoffman invested in a range of technology companies, leveraging his experience as a founder and operator to identify and support promising startups. His investment portfolio at Greylock included stakes in companies across social media, enterprise software, consumer Internet, and other technology sectors.


Hoffman appeared on the ''Forbes'' Midas List, an annual ranking of the top technology investors, reflecting his track record of successful investments in the technology sector.<ref>{{cite web |title=Reid Hoffman – Forbes Midas List 2012 |url=https://www.forbes.com/lists/midas/2012/reid-hoffman.html |publisher=Forbes |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Hoffman's dual perspective — as both a successful entrepreneur and an active investor — gave him a distinctive position in the venture capital industry. He was able to draw on his firsthand experience building LinkedIn and his earlier work at PayPal and SocialNet to advise founders on the challenges of scaling technology businesses. Forbes included Hoffman on its Midas List of top technology investors, recognizing his track record in venture capital.<ref>{{cite web |title=Forbes Midas List 2012: Reid Hoffman |url=https://www.forbes.com/lists/midas/2012/reid-hoffman.html |publisher=Forbes |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


=== Inflection AI and Manas AI ===
In addition to his work at Greylock, Hoffman is the chairman of [[Village Global]], a venture capital firm that operates a network-driven model connecting founders with experienced entrepreneurs and investors.


In addition to his work in venture capital, Hoffman co-founded [[Inflection AI]], an artificial intelligence company focused on developing conversational AI systems. He also co-founded [[Manas AI]], another venture in the AI space. These ventures reflected Hoffman's increasing focus on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and its implications for work, communication, and society. As of the mid-2020s, Hoffman's engagement with AI companies positioned him as a notable voice in the debate over AI governance, safety, and deployment.
=== Artificial Intelligence Ventures ===


=== Village Global ===
In more recent years, Hoffman has turned significant attention to the field of [[artificial intelligence]]. He co-founded [[Inflection AI]], a company focused on developing AI systems for personal and professional use. Inflection AI attracted considerable attention and investment as part of the broader wave of AI development that accelerated in the early 2020s.


Hoffman serves as the chairman of Village Global, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups. Village Global's model draws on a network of successful entrepreneurs and investors to identify and support promising new companies. Hoffman's role at Village Global extended his influence in the startup ecosystem beyond his partnership at Greylock.
Hoffman also co-founded [[Manas AI]], another venture in the AI space, and serves as a board member at the [[Arc Institute]], a research organization. These activities reflect Hoffman's ongoing engagement with emerging technologies and his interest in shaping how artificial intelligence is developed and deployed.


=== Authorship and Public Commentary ===
=== Writing and Media ===


Hoffman is the author of several books on entrepreneurship, technology, and the future of work. His book ''The Start-up of You'', co-authored with Ben Casnocha, was published in 2012 and appeared on ''The New York Times'' Best Sellers list for hardcover advice books.<ref>{{cite web |title=Best Sellers: Hardcover Advice – March 4, 2012 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/best-sellers-books/2012-03-04/hardcover-advice/list.html |publisher=The New York Times |date=2012-03-04 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> The book argued that individuals should approach their careers with the same adaptability and strategic thinking used by startup founders, and it drew on Hoffman's experiences in Silicon Valley to illustrate its themes.<ref>{{cite web |title=The Start-up of You |url=http://www.startupofyou.com/ |publisher=startupofyou.com |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Hoffman has been a prolific writer and public commentator on topics related to entrepreneurship, technology, and society. In 2012, he co-authored ''[[The Start-up of You|The Start-up of You: Adapt to the Future, Invest in Yourself, and Transform Your Career]]'' with Ben Casnocha. The book, which applied entrepreneurial thinking to individual career development, appeared on ''[[The New York Times]]'' Best Sellers list.<ref>{{cite web |title=Best Sellers: Hardcover Advice |url=https://www.nytimes.com/best-sellers-books/2012-03-04/hardcover-advice/list.html |publisher=The New York Times |date=2012-03-04 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=The Start-up of You |url=http://www.startupofyou.com/ |publisher=Start-up of You |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> The book argued that in a rapidly changing economy, individuals should approach their careers with the same mindset that entrepreneurs apply to building businesses — embracing risk, building networks, and adapting to new opportunities.


Hoffman has also been a regular contributor to LinkedIn's publishing platform, sharing essays on topics including technology, leadership, and public policy.<ref>{{cite web |title=Reid Hoffman on LinkedIn Today |url=https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/1213 |publisher=LinkedIn |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> He has hosted podcasts and participated in public debates about the responsibilities of technology leaders, the ethics of artificial intelligence, and the role of innovation in strengthening democratic institutions.
Hoffman has also hosted podcasts and contributed to public discourse through columns, essays, and speaking engagements. He has maintained a presence on LinkedIn's publishing platform, where he has written on a range of topics including technology policy, the future of work, and the societal implications of artificial intelligence.<ref>{{cite web |title=Reid Hoffman on LinkedIn |url=https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/1213 |publisher=LinkedIn |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


=== Political Engagement and Public Policy ===
The ''[[Wall Street Journal]]'' has covered Hoffman's career and ideas extensively.<ref>{{cite news |title=Reid Hoffman |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052970203918304577239230834998866 |work=The Wall Street Journal |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


Hoffman has been active in political advocacy and public policy. He has been a member of the [[Bilderberg Group]], an annual private conference of political and business leaders, since at least 2011.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bilderberg Meetings – Latest Meetings |url=http://www.bilderbergmeetings.org/latest-meetings.html |publisher=Bilderberg Meetings |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Bilderberg Participant Lists |url=https://publicintelligence.net/category/documents/bilderberg/bilderberg-participant-lists/ |publisher=Public Intelligence |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> He has also been a member of the [[Council on Foreign Relations]] since 2015.
=== Political Engagement and Public Advocacy ===


Hoffman has contributed to various political campaigns and organizations. He was listed among the top donors to [[Mayday PAC]], a political action committee focused on campaign finance reform.<ref>{{cite web |title=Your Donations – Top Donors |url=https://mayday.us/your-donations-top-donors/ |publisher=Mayday PAC |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> His political engagement has included vocal support for democratic institutions and what he describes as humanism in technological innovation.
Hoffman has been an active participant in American political life. He has contributed to various political campaigns and organizations, and has been a significant donor to causes aligned with the [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democratic Party]]. He was among the top donors to [[Mayday PAC]], a political action committee focused on campaign finance reform.<ref>{{cite web |title=Your Donations — Top Donors |url=https://mayday.us/your-donations-top-donors/ |publisher=Mayday PAC |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


In 2014, Hoffman was named among the inaugural members of the President's Advisory Council on Doing Business in Africa by U.S. Secretary of Commerce [[Penny Pritzker]].<ref>{{cite web |title=U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker Announces Inaugural Members of President's Advisory Council on Doing Business in Africa |url=http://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2014/04/07/us-secretary-commerce-penny-pritzker-announces-inaugural-members-pres |publisher=U.S. Department of Commerce |date=2014-04-07 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
In 2014, Hoffman was named as an inaugural member of the President's Advisory Council on Doing Business in Africa by U.S. Secretary of Commerce [[Penny Pritzker]].<ref>{{cite web |title=U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker Announces Inaugural Members of President's Advisory Council |url=http://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2014/04/07/us-secretary-commerce-penny-pritzker-announces-inaugural-members-pres |publisher=U.S. Department of Commerce |date=2014-04-07 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


In January and February 2026, Hoffman became a prominent voice urging Silicon Valley leaders to publicly oppose what he characterized as authoritarian tendencies in the administration of President [[Donald Trump]]. In an opinion piece published in ''The San Francisco Standard'', Hoffman argued that the technology industry could no longer remain neutral in the face of political developments, writing in the wake of events in Minneapolis that prompted a broader public debate about the responsibilities of corporate leaders.<ref>{{cite news |last=Hoffman |first=Reid |date=2026-01-29 |title=Reid Hoffman: Silicon Valley can't be neutral any longer |url=https://sfstandard.com/opinion/2026/01/29/reid-hoffman-silicon-valley-can-t-neutral-any-longer/ |work=The San Francisco Standard |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> The piece drew attention from national media, with ''TechCrunch'' reporting on Hoffman's call for tech leaders to "stop bending the knee" to the president.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-01-30 |title=Reid Hoffman urges Silicon Valley leaders to stop bending the knee to President Trump |url=https://techcrunch.com/2026/01/30/reid-hoffman-urges-silicon-valley-leaders-to-stop-bending-the-knee-to-president-trump/ |work=TechCrunch |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> ''CNBC'' noted that Hoffman was among a small number of tech leaders willing to speak publicly on the issue, in contrast to a broader pattern of silence from major technology CEOs.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-01-26 |title=Tech's top CEOs mum after Minneapolis killings, while leaders like Reid Hoffman, Yann LeCun speak out |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/26/alex-pretti-killing-ice-tech-ceo-response.html |work=CNBC |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Hoffman has been a member of the [[Bilderberg Group]], attending its meetings since at least 2011.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bilderberg Meetings |url=http://www.bilderbergmeetings.org/index.html |publisher=Bilderberg Meetings |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Bilderberg Participant Lists |url=https://publicintelligence.net/category/documents/bilderberg/bilderberg-participant-lists/ |publisher=Public Intelligence |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Latest Meetings |url=http://www.bilderbergmeetings.org/latest-meetings.html |publisher=Bilderberg Meetings |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> He has also been a member of the [[Council on Foreign Relations]] since 2015.


Hoffman's position on Microsoft's board drew scrutiny in early 2026 from organizations such as the National Legal and Policy Center, which questioned whether his political activities were consistent with his fiduciary responsibilities as a corporate board member.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02-23 |title=Trump Calls for Removal of Susan Rice from Netflix Board; What About Reid Hoffman at Microsoft? |url=https://nlpc.org/corporate-integrity-project/trump-calls-for-removal-of-susan-rice-from-netflix-board-what-about-reid-hoffman-at-microsoft/ |work=National Legal and Policy Center |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
In January 2026, Hoffman publicly urged Silicon Valley leaders to resist political pressure from the administration of President [[Donald Trump]], writing an opinion piece arguing that the technology industry could not remain neutral in the face of political developments. His essay, published by ''The San Francisco Standard'', called on tech leaders to defend democratic institutions.<ref>{{cite news |title=Reid Hoffman: Silicon Valley can't be neutral any longer |url=https://sfstandard.com/opinion/2026/01/29/reid-hoffman-silicon-valley-can-t-neutral-any-longer/ |work=The San Francisco Standard |date=2026-01-29 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> The piece drew significant coverage, including from ''TechCrunch'', which reported on Hoffman's call for tech leaders to "stop bending the knee" to the president.<ref>{{cite news |title=Reid Hoffman urges Silicon Valley leaders to stop bending the knee to President Trump |url=https://techcrunch.com/2026/01/30/reid-hoffman-urges-silicon-valley-leaders-to-stop-bending-the-knee-to-president-trump/ |work=TechCrunch |date=2026-01-30 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Hoffman was also among technology leaders who spoke out following killings in Minneapolis, at a time when many prominent CEOs remained silent.<ref>{{cite news |title=Tech's top CEOs mum after Minneapolis killings, while leaders like Reid Hoffman, Yann LeCun speak out |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/26/alex-pretti-killing-ice-tech-ceo-response.html |work=CNBC |date=2026-01-26 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


=== Jeffrey Epstein Connections ===
=== Jeffrey Epstein Controversy ===


In early 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice released documents related to the late financier [[Jeffrey Epstein]] that included communications involving Hoffman. According to reporting by the ''New York Post'', unsealed emails from 2015 showed Epstein referencing a dinner with Hoffman and [[Mark Zuckerberg]], which Epstein described as "wild."<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02-02 |title=Jeffrey Epstein boasted about 'wild' dinner with Mark Zuckerberg, Reid Hoffman in unsealed 2015 email |url=https://nypost.com/2026/02/02/business/jeffrey-epstein-boasted-about-wild-dinner-with-mark-zuckerberg-reid-hoffman-in-unsealed-2015-email/ |work=New York Post |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Additional reporting from the ''New York Post'' detailed email exchanges between Hoffman and Epstein that were included in the DOJ document release.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-01-31 |title=LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman's emails with Jeffrey Epstein revealed in DOJ docs |url=https://nypost.com/2026/01/31/us-news/linkedin-founder-reid-hoffmans-emails-with-jeffrey-epstein-revealed-in-doj-docs/ |work=New York Post |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> ''CNBC'' and ''Mashable'' reported that the newly released files illustrated the extent of Epstein's connections across Silicon Valley, naming Hoffman among several prominent technology figures who appeared in the records.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02-09 |title=Epstein's Silicon Valley connections went beyond Gates and Musk |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/09/tech-leaders-epstein-records-silicon-valley-sergey-brin-thiel-sinofsky-reid-hoffman-musk-gates.html |work=CNBC |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date= |title=The tech titans who show up in the Epstein files |url=https://mashable.com/article/tech-ceos-epstein-files-musk-gates-hoffman-thiel-zuckerberg |work=Mashable |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Hoffman had previously acknowledged having met Epstein and expressed regret over the association.
Hoffman's name has appeared in public records and media reports related to the late financier [[Jeffrey Epstein]]. In January 2026, documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice included emails between Hoffman and Epstein. The ''New York Post'' reported that the released documents showed email correspondence between the two men.<ref>{{cite news |last= |first= |date=2026-01-31 |title=LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman's emails with Jeffrey Epstein revealed in DOJ docs |url=https://nypost.com/2026/01/31/us-news/linkedin-founder-reid-hoffmans-emails-with-jeffrey-epstein-revealed-in-doj-docs/ |work=New York Post |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Separately, the ''New York Post'' reported on a 2015 email in which Epstein described a dinner with [[Mark Zuckerberg]] and Hoffman as "wild."<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02-02 |title=Jeffrey Epstein boasted about 'wild' dinner with Mark Zuckerberg, Reid Hoffman in unsealed 2015 email |url=https://nypost.com/2026/02/02/business/jeffrey-epstein-boasted-about-wild-dinner-with-mark-zuckerberg-reid-hoffman-in-unsealed-2015-email/ |work=New York Post |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> CNBC and ''Mashable'' reported that the Epstein files revealed connections between the late financier and multiple Silicon Valley figures, including Hoffman.<ref>{{cite news |title=Epstein's Silicon Valley connections went beyond Gates and Musk |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/09/tech-leaders-epstein-records-silicon-valley-sergey-brin-thiel-sinofsky-reid-hoffman-musk-gates.html |work=CNBC |date=2026-02-09 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=The tech titans who show up in the Epstein files |url=https://mashable.com/article/tech-ceos-epstein-files-musk-gates-hoffman-thiel-zuckerberg |work=Mashable |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Hoffman had previously acknowledged meeting Epstein and expressed regret for the association.


== Personal Life ==
== Personal Life ==


Hoffman resides in the San Francisco Bay Area. He has been a public advocate for issues including campaign finance reform, the role of technology in democratic governance, and the ethical development of artificial intelligence. Details about his personal and family life beyond his professional activities are limited in publicly documented sources.
Hoffman resides in the San Francisco Bay Area. He has been active in philanthropic efforts, though detailed information about his personal philanthropy from the provided sources is limited. His public statements and writings have reflected an interest in [[humanism]] and the responsible development of technology, themes that recur in his books, essays, and public appearances.


Hoffman has spoken publicly about the influence of his philosophical training at Oxford on his worldview, and he has described himself as a proponent of humanism in the context of technological innovation. He has participated in a range of civic and philanthropic activities, though specific details about his charitable giving are not fully documented in available sources.
Hoffman's involvement with the [[Bilderberg Group]] and the [[Council on Foreign Relations]] reflects his engagement with international policy discussions beyond the technology sector.


== Recognition ==
== Recognition ==


Hoffman has received a number of awards and honors recognizing his contributions to entrepreneurship and technology. In 2011, he was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year.<ref>{{cite web |title=US EOY 2011 Winners |url=http://www.ey.com/US/en/About-us/Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneur-Of-The-Year/US_EOY_2011-winners |publisher=Ernst & Young |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Hoffman has received numerous awards and honors recognizing his contributions to entrepreneurship and business.
 
In 2011, he was named Entrepreneur of the Year by [[Ernst & Young]].<ref>{{cite web |title=EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2011 Winners |url=http://www.ey.com/US/en/About-us/Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneur-Of-The-Year/US_EOY_2011-winners |publisher=Ernst & Young |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


In 2012, Hoffman received an award from the World Affairs Council of Northern California at its annual awards dinner.<ref>{{cite web |title=2012 Awards Dinner |url=http://www.worldaffairs.org/events/special-events/2012-awards-dinner.html |publisher=World Affairs Council |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> That same year, he was recognized by the [[Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change|King Center]] as part of its 2012 Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Observance programming.<ref>{{cite web |title=King Center Announces Plans for 2012 MLK Holiday Observance |url=http://www.thekingcenter.org/king-center-announces-plans-for-2012-mlk-holiday-observance |publisher=The King Center |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
In 2012, the World Affairs Council honored Hoffman at its annual awards dinner, recognizing his global impact through technology and business.<ref>{{cite web |title=2012 Awards Dinner |url=http://www.worldaffairs.org/events/special-events/2012-awards-dinner.html |publisher=World Affairs Council |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> That same year, Hoffman was recognized by the [[Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change|King Center]] as part of its 2012 Martin Luther King Jr. holiday observance.<ref>{{cite web |title=King Center Announces Plans for 2012 MLK Holiday Observance |url=http://www.thekingcenter.org/king-center-announces-plans-for-2012-mlk-holiday-observance |publisher=The King Center |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


Hoffman has been awarded an honorary degree by [[Babson College]], a private business school recognized for its focus on entrepreneurship education.<ref>{{cite web |title=Honorary Degrees |url=http://www.babson.edu/news-events/events/commencement/honorary/Pages/home.aspx |publisher=Babson College |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
[[Babson College]] awarded Hoffman an honorary degree, recognizing his contributions to entrepreneurship and business education.<ref>{{cite web |title=Honorary Degree Recipients |url=http://www.babson.edu/news-events/events/commencement/honorary/Pages/home.aspx |publisher=Babson College |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


In 2014, the [[Commonwealth Club of California]] recognized Hoffman at its annual dinner.<ref>{{cite web |title=Commonwealth Club Annual Dinner |url=http://www.commonwealthclub.org/annualdinner |publisher=Commonwealth Club of California |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
The [[Commonwealth Club of California]] also recognized Hoffman at its annual dinner.<ref>{{cite web |title=Annual Dinner |url=http://www.commonwealthclub.org/annualdinner |publisher=Commonwealth Club of California |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


Hoffman's ''Wall Street Journal'' profile noted his influence as both an entrepreneur and investor in the technology sector.<ref>{{cite news |title= |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052970203918304577239230834998866 |work=The Wall Street Journal |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> He has appeared on the ''Forbes'' Midas List, which ranks the top venture capital investors in the technology industry.<ref>{{cite web |title=Reid Hoffman – Forbes Midas List 2012 |url=https://www.forbes.com/lists/midas/2012/reid-hoffman.html |publisher=Forbes |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Forbes has consistently included Hoffman in its various rankings, including the Midas List of top technology investors.<ref>{{cite web |title=Forbes Midas List 2012: Reid Hoffman |url=https://www.forbes.com/lists/midas/2012/reid-hoffman.html |publisher=Forbes |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


== Legacy ==
== Legacy ==


Reid Hoffman's career has intersected several of the most consequential developments in the technology industry over the past three decades. As a co-founder of LinkedIn, he helped establish the concept of professional social networking as a mainstream tool for career development, recruiting, and business communication. LinkedIn's growth from a startup to a platform with hundreds of millions of users — and its eventual acquisition by Microsoft — made it one of the defining companies of the social networking era.
Reid Hoffman's career has been intertwined with several of the most significant developments in the technology industry over a span of more than two decades. As a co-founder of LinkedIn, he helped establish professional networking as a distinct category of social media, creating a platform that fundamentally changed how professionals manage their careers, how companies recruit talent, and how business relationships are formed and maintained. LinkedIn's growth from a startup in 2003 to a platform acquired by Microsoft for over $26 billion in 2016 stands as one of the notable success stories of the Web 2.0 era.


As an investor at Greylock Partners and chairman of Village Global, Hoffman played a role in shaping the development of numerous technology companies during a period of rapid growth in the startup ecosystem. His investments and advisory relationships extended his influence beyond his own companies and into the broader landscape of Silicon Valley venture capital.
Through his work at Greylock Partners and Village Global, Hoffman has influenced the trajectory of numerous technology companies as an investor and advisor. His involvement with PayPal in its early days connected him to a generation of founders and executives who went on to build some of the most consequential technology companies of the 21st century.


Hoffman's involvement in the founding of Inflection AI and Manas AI positioned him at the forefront of the artificial intelligence industry as it became one of the central areas of technology development and public debate in the 2020s. His public commentary on AI ethics, governance, and the societal implications of automation has contributed to ongoing discussions about the responsibilities of technologists and investors in shaping the future of work and society.
Hoffman's writing, including ''The Start-up of You'', contributed to a body of literature that framed entrepreneurial thinking as applicable to individual career development, not just business creation. His public commentary on the relationship between technology and society has addressed questions about the responsibilities of technology companies and their leaders in democratic societies — themes that have become increasingly prominent in public discourse.


His political engagement, including his advocacy for campaign finance reform through organizations such as Mayday PAC and his membership in international policy forums such as the Bilderberg Group, has made him one of the more politically active figures in the technology industry. His willingness to take public positions on contentious political issues — including, in 2026, his calls for Silicon Valley to resist what he described as authoritarian tendencies — has distinguished him from many of his peers in the industry who have tended to avoid overt political engagement.
His more recent work in artificial intelligence, through Inflection AI and Manas AI, positions Hoffman at the center of debates about the development and governance of AI systems, a field that is expected to have far-reaching implications for the global economy and society.<ref>{{cite news |title=LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman, Chan Zuckerberg... |url=http://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/news/2016/11/11/linkedin-founder-reid-hoffman-chan-zuckerberg.html |work=Silicon Valley Business Journal |date=2016-11-11 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
 
Hoffman's career has also been subject to controversy, particularly regarding his past association with Jeffrey Epstein, which received renewed attention following the release of DOJ documents in 2026. The intersection of his political advocacy, corporate board service, and personal associations has ensured that Hoffman remains a figure of both influence and scrutiny in American public life.


== References ==
== References ==
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Latest revision as of 06:41, 24 February 2026



Reid Hoffman
BornReid Garrett Hoffman
5 8, 1967
BirthplacePalo Alto, California, U.S.
NationalityAmerican
OccupationEntrepreneur, venture capitalist, author, podcaster
Known forCo-founding LinkedIn, partner at Greylock Partners, co-founding Inflection AI
EducationStanford University (BS)
Wolfson College, Oxford (MSt)
AwardsErnst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year (2011)

Reid Garrett Hoffman (born August 5, 1967) is an American Internet entrepreneur, venture capitalist, podcaster, and author. He is best known as the co-founder and former executive chairman of LinkedIn, the professional networking platform that grew into one of the largest business-oriented social networks in the world before its acquisition by Microsoft. Beyond LinkedIn, Hoffman built a prominent career in venture capital as a partner at Greylock Partners, where he backed numerous technology companies during formative stages of growth. He is also a co-founder of Inflection AI and Manas AI, and serves on the boards of Microsoft and the Arc Institute. Hoffman has been an active voice in American public life, contributing to political campaigns and organizations, and writing extensively on topics at the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and society. His career, which began in Silicon Valley in the mid-1990s, has spanned the founding era of major Internet companies, the rise of social networking, and the emergence of artificial intelligence as a transformative force.

Early Life

Reid Garrett Hoffman was born on August 5, 1967, in Palo Alto, California, a city situated in the heart of what would become known as Silicon Valley.[1] Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area placed Hoffman in proximity to the burgeoning technology industry that would later define his professional life. Details about his parents and family background are limited in publicly available records, though his upbringing in one of the most technology-rich regions of the United States provided early exposure to the culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Hoffman developed intellectual interests from a young age that would later inform his multifaceted career. He was drawn to questions about how human societies function, how networks form, and how individuals can create large-scale impact — themes that would recur throughout his career as an entrepreneur, investor, and author. His early intellectual development was shaped by the unique environment of the Bay Area during the 1970s and 1980s, a period during which the personal computing revolution was taking root in the garages and offices surrounding Stanford University and its affiliated research institutions.

Education

Hoffman pursued his undergraduate studies at Stanford University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree.[1] Stanford, with its deep connections to Silicon Valley and its tradition of fostering entrepreneurship among its students and faculty, provided Hoffman with both an academic foundation and a network of peers who would go on to become influential figures in the technology industry.

Following his time at Stanford, Hoffman crossed the Atlantic to study at Wolfson College at the University of Oxford, where he earned a Master of Studies (MSt) degree.[1] His studies at Oxford reflected his interest in intellectual inquiry beyond the purely technical, encompassing philosophy and broader humanistic questions. This combination of a Stanford engineering education and an Oxford humanities background gave Hoffman an unusual intellectual profile among Silicon Valley entrepreneurs — one that blended technological fluency with a deep interest in human systems and social structures. Hoffman has credited his time at Oxford with shaping his thinking about how societies and networks operate, themes that would later become central to both LinkedIn and his writing.

Career

Early Career and Silicon Valley Beginnings

After completing his education at Oxford, Hoffman returned to Silicon Valley and entered the technology industry during the mid-1990s, a period of explosive growth driven by the commercialization of the Internet. He joined Apple Computer, where he gained early experience in the technology sector. Hoffman then moved to Fujitsu, further broadening his understanding of the technology business.

In 1997, Hoffman co-founded SocialNet.com, one of the early online social networking services. SocialNet was designed to connect people for dating, professional networking, and shared activities. Though SocialNet did not achieve widespread commercial success, the experience proved formative for Hoffman, providing him with direct knowledge of the challenges and opportunities inherent in building online social platforms. The lessons learned at SocialNet would directly inform his later, more successful venture with LinkedIn.

During this period, Hoffman also became involved with PayPal, the online payment company that became one of the most significant startups of the late 1990s and early 2000s. He served on PayPal's board of directors and was part of its executive team. PayPal's founding group, which included figures such as Peter Thiel, Elon Musk, and Max Levchin, became known as the "PayPal Mafia" due to the subsequent success of its members in founding and funding numerous other technology companies. Hoffman's involvement with PayPal connected him to a network of entrepreneurs and investors who would become central figures in Silicon Valley for decades.

Founding LinkedIn

In December 2002, Hoffman co-founded LinkedIn, a professional networking platform, along with Allen Blue, Konstantin Guericke, Eric Ly, and Jean-Luc Vaillant. The site officially launched on May 5, 2003. LinkedIn was built on the premise that professional relationships and networks could be managed, cultivated, and leveraged through an online platform — an idea that drew directly on Hoffman's earlier experience with SocialNet.com and his broader intellectual interest in the power of human networks.[1]

LinkedIn grew steadily in the years following its launch, distinguishing itself from other social networking platforms of the era — such as Friendster and later MySpace and Facebook — by focusing exclusively on professional relationships rather than personal social connections. The platform allowed users to create professional profiles, connect with colleagues and industry contacts, search for jobs, and recruit talent. This focus on the professional sphere gave LinkedIn a distinct value proposition and a revenue model built around recruitment services, premium subscriptions, and advertising.

Hoffman served as LinkedIn's chief executive officer during its early years before transitioning to the role of executive chairman, a position that allowed him to focus on the company's long-term strategic direction while day-to-day operations were managed by other executives. Under Hoffman's leadership and strategic guidance, LinkedIn expanded its user base from a small network of Silicon Valley professionals to a global platform with hundreds of millions of members across virtually every industry and country.

LinkedIn went public in May 2011, and its initial public offering was one of the most closely watched technology IPOs of that year. The company's stock price surged on its first day of trading, reflecting strong investor confidence in the platform's growth potential and business model.

In 2016, Microsoft announced its acquisition of LinkedIn for approximately $26.2 billion, one of the largest technology acquisitions in history at that time. The deal underscored the value of the professional networking platform that Hoffman had co-founded more than a decade earlier. Following the acquisition, Hoffman joined the Microsoft board of directors, a position he continues to hold.[2]

Venture Capital: Greylock Partners

In 2009, Hoffman joined Greylock Partners, a prominent Silicon Valley venture capital firm, as a partner. At Greylock, Hoffman invested in a range of technology companies, leveraging his experience as a founder and operator to identify and support promising startups. His investment portfolio at Greylock included stakes in companies across social media, enterprise software, consumer Internet, and other technology sectors.

Hoffman's dual perspective — as both a successful entrepreneur and an active investor — gave him a distinctive position in the venture capital industry. He was able to draw on his firsthand experience building LinkedIn and his earlier work at PayPal and SocialNet to advise founders on the challenges of scaling technology businesses. Forbes included Hoffman on its Midas List of top technology investors, recognizing his track record in venture capital.[3]

In addition to his work at Greylock, Hoffman is the chairman of Village Global, a venture capital firm that operates a network-driven model connecting founders with experienced entrepreneurs and investors.

Artificial Intelligence Ventures

In more recent years, Hoffman has turned significant attention to the field of artificial intelligence. He co-founded Inflection AI, a company focused on developing AI systems for personal and professional use. Inflection AI attracted considerable attention and investment as part of the broader wave of AI development that accelerated in the early 2020s.

Hoffman also co-founded Manas AI, another venture in the AI space, and serves as a board member at the Arc Institute, a research organization. These activities reflect Hoffman's ongoing engagement with emerging technologies and his interest in shaping how artificial intelligence is developed and deployed.

Writing and Media

Hoffman has been a prolific writer and public commentator on topics related to entrepreneurship, technology, and society. In 2012, he co-authored The Start-up of You: Adapt to the Future, Invest in Yourself, and Transform Your Career with Ben Casnocha. The book, which applied entrepreneurial thinking to individual career development, appeared on The New York Times Best Sellers list.[4][5] The book argued that in a rapidly changing economy, individuals should approach their careers with the same mindset that entrepreneurs apply to building businesses — embracing risk, building networks, and adapting to new opportunities.

Hoffman has also hosted podcasts and contributed to public discourse through columns, essays, and speaking engagements. He has maintained a presence on LinkedIn's publishing platform, where he has written on a range of topics including technology policy, the future of work, and the societal implications of artificial intelligence.[6]

The Wall Street Journal has covered Hoffman's career and ideas extensively.[7]

Political Engagement and Public Advocacy

Hoffman has been an active participant in American political life. He has contributed to various political campaigns and organizations, and has been a significant donor to causes aligned with the Democratic Party. He was among the top donors to Mayday PAC, a political action committee focused on campaign finance reform.[8]

In 2014, Hoffman was named as an inaugural member of the President's Advisory Council on Doing Business in Africa by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker.[9]

Hoffman has been a member of the Bilderberg Group, attending its meetings since at least 2011.[10][11][12] He has also been a member of the Council on Foreign Relations since 2015.

In January 2026, Hoffman publicly urged Silicon Valley leaders to resist political pressure from the administration of President Donald Trump, writing an opinion piece arguing that the technology industry could not remain neutral in the face of political developments. His essay, published by The San Francisco Standard, called on tech leaders to defend democratic institutions.[13] The piece drew significant coverage, including from TechCrunch, which reported on Hoffman's call for tech leaders to "stop bending the knee" to the president.[14] Hoffman was also among technology leaders who spoke out following killings in Minneapolis, at a time when many prominent CEOs remained silent.[15]

Jeffrey Epstein Controversy

Hoffman's name has appeared in public records and media reports related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. In January 2026, documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice included emails between Hoffman and Epstein. The New York Post reported that the released documents showed email correspondence between the two men.[16] Separately, the New York Post reported on a 2015 email in which Epstein described a dinner with Mark Zuckerberg and Hoffman as "wild."[17] CNBC and Mashable reported that the Epstein files revealed connections between the late financier and multiple Silicon Valley figures, including Hoffman.[18][19] Hoffman had previously acknowledged meeting Epstein and expressed regret for the association.

Personal Life

Hoffman resides in the San Francisco Bay Area. He has been active in philanthropic efforts, though detailed information about his personal philanthropy from the provided sources is limited. His public statements and writings have reflected an interest in humanism and the responsible development of technology, themes that recur in his books, essays, and public appearances.

Hoffman's involvement with the Bilderberg Group and the Council on Foreign Relations reflects his engagement with international policy discussions beyond the technology sector.

Recognition

Hoffman has received numerous awards and honors recognizing his contributions to entrepreneurship and business.

In 2011, he was named Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst & Young.[20]

In 2012, the World Affairs Council honored Hoffman at its annual awards dinner, recognizing his global impact through technology and business.[21] That same year, Hoffman was recognized by the King Center as part of its 2012 Martin Luther King Jr. holiday observance.[22]

Babson College awarded Hoffman an honorary degree, recognizing his contributions to entrepreneurship and business education.[23]

The Commonwealth Club of California also recognized Hoffman at its annual dinner.[24]

Forbes has consistently included Hoffman in its various rankings, including the Midas List of top technology investors.[25]

Legacy

Reid Hoffman's career has been intertwined with several of the most significant developments in the technology industry over a span of more than two decades. As a co-founder of LinkedIn, he helped establish professional networking as a distinct category of social media, creating a platform that fundamentally changed how professionals manage their careers, how companies recruit talent, and how business relationships are formed and maintained. LinkedIn's growth from a startup in 2003 to a platform acquired by Microsoft for over $26 billion in 2016 stands as one of the notable success stories of the Web 2.0 era.

Through his work at Greylock Partners and Village Global, Hoffman has influenced the trajectory of numerous technology companies as an investor and advisor. His involvement with PayPal in its early days connected him to a generation of founders and executives who went on to build some of the most consequential technology companies of the 21st century.

Hoffman's writing, including The Start-up of You, contributed to a body of literature that framed entrepreneurial thinking as applicable to individual career development, not just business creation. His public commentary on the relationship between technology and society has addressed questions about the responsibilities of technology companies and their leaders in democratic societies — themes that have become increasingly prominent in public discourse.

His more recent work in artificial intelligence, through Inflection AI and Manas AI, positions Hoffman at the center of debates about the development and governance of AI systems, a field that is expected to have far-reaching implications for the global economy and society.[26]

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 "LinkedIn Management".LinkedIn.https://www.linkedin.com/static?key=management.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  2. ↑ "Trump Calls for Removal of Susan Rice from Netflix Board; What About Reid Hoffman at Microsoft?".National Legal and Policy Center.2026-02-23.https://nlpc.org/corporate-integrity-project/trump-calls-for-removal-of-susan-rice-from-netflix-board-what-about-reid-hoffman-at-microsoft/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  3. ↑ "Forbes Midas List 2012: Reid Hoffman".Forbes.https://www.forbes.com/lists/midas/2012/reid-hoffman.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  4. ↑ "Best Sellers: Hardcover Advice".The New York Times.2012-03-04.https://www.nytimes.com/best-sellers-books/2012-03-04/hardcover-advice/list.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  5. ↑ "The Start-up of You".Start-up of You.http://www.startupofyou.com/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  6. ↑ "Reid Hoffman on LinkedIn".LinkedIn.https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/1213.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  7. ↑ "Reid Hoffman".The Wall Street Journal.https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052970203918304577239230834998866.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  8. ↑ "Your Donations — Top Donors".Mayday PAC.https://mayday.us/your-donations-top-donors/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  9. ↑ "U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker Announces Inaugural Members of President's Advisory Council".U.S. Department of Commerce.2014-04-07.http://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2014/04/07/us-secretary-commerce-penny-pritzker-announces-inaugural-members-pres.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  10. ↑ "Bilderberg Meetings".Bilderberg Meetings.http://www.bilderbergmeetings.org/index.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  11. ↑ "Bilderberg Participant Lists".Public Intelligence.https://publicintelligence.net/category/documents/bilderberg/bilderberg-participant-lists/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  12. ↑ "Latest Meetings".Bilderberg Meetings.http://www.bilderbergmeetings.org/latest-meetings.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  13. ↑ "Reid Hoffman: Silicon Valley can't be neutral any longer".The San Francisco Standard.2026-01-29.https://sfstandard.com/opinion/2026/01/29/reid-hoffman-silicon-valley-can-t-neutral-any-longer/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  14. ↑ "Reid Hoffman urges Silicon Valley leaders to stop bending the knee to President Trump".TechCrunch.2026-01-30.https://techcrunch.com/2026/01/30/reid-hoffman-urges-silicon-valley-leaders-to-stop-bending-the-knee-to-president-trump/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  15. ↑ "Tech's top CEOs mum after Minneapolis killings, while leaders like Reid Hoffman, Yann LeCun speak out".CNBC.2026-01-26.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/26/alex-pretti-killing-ice-tech-ceo-response.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  16. ↑ "LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman's emails with Jeffrey Epstein revealed in DOJ docs".New York Post.2026-01-31.https://nypost.com/2026/01/31/us-news/linkedin-founder-reid-hoffmans-emails-with-jeffrey-epstein-revealed-in-doj-docs/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  17. ↑ "Jeffrey Epstein boasted about 'wild' dinner with Mark Zuckerberg, Reid Hoffman in unsealed 2015 email".New York Post.2026-02-02.https://nypost.com/2026/02/02/business/jeffrey-epstein-boasted-about-wild-dinner-with-mark-zuckerberg-reid-hoffman-in-unsealed-2015-email/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  18. ↑ "Epstein's Silicon Valley connections went beyond Gates and Musk".CNBC.2026-02-09.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/09/tech-leaders-epstein-records-silicon-valley-sergey-brin-thiel-sinofsky-reid-hoffman-musk-gates.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  19. ↑ "The tech titans who show up in the Epstein files".Mashable.https://mashable.com/article/tech-ceos-epstein-files-musk-gates-hoffman-thiel-zuckerberg.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  20. ↑ "EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2011 Winners".Ernst & Young.http://www.ey.com/US/en/About-us/Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneur-Of-The-Year/US_EOY_2011-winners.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  21. ↑ "2012 Awards Dinner".World Affairs Council.http://www.worldaffairs.org/events/special-events/2012-awards-dinner.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  22. ↑ "King Center Announces Plans for 2012 MLK Holiday Observance".The King Center.http://www.thekingcenter.org/king-center-announces-plans-for-2012-mlk-holiday-observance.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  23. ↑ "Honorary Degree Recipients".Babson College.http://www.babson.edu/news-events/events/commencement/honorary/Pages/home.aspx.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  24. ↑ "Annual Dinner".Commonwealth Club of California.http://www.commonwealthclub.org/annualdinner.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  25. ↑ "Forbes Midas List 2012: Reid Hoffman".Forbes.https://www.forbes.com/lists/midas/2012/reid-hoffman.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  26. ↑ "LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman, Chan Zuckerberg...".Silicon Valley Business Journal.2016-11-11.http://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/news/2016/11/11/linkedin-founder-reid-hoffman-chan-zuckerberg.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.

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