Craig Newmark

Craig Newmark is an American entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist, best known as the founder of Craigslist, one of the most influential online classified platforms. Born in 1952 in Morristown, New Jersey, he studied computer science and worked as a programmer before creating Craigslist in the mid-1990s. What started as a simple email list for friends in San Francisco grew into a global service that transformed the way people buy, sell, and connect online.

Beyond his work with Craigslist, Newmark has dedicated much of his life to philanthropy, particularly in the areas of journalism, voter protection, veterans’ causes, and technology ethics. Through his organization, Craig Newmark Philanthropies, he has donated millions of dollars to support trustworthy news, combat misinformation, and promote civic engagement. His efforts reflect his belief in using technology and wealth for the greater public good.

Famous for his thoughtful quotes, Newmark once said: “Give people a break. Everybody deserves respect.” He has also remarked: “The Internet is about people helping each other.” These simple yet powerful reflections encapsulate his vision of community, trust, and service, values that have shaped both his entrepreneurial journey and his philanthropic mission.