Inside Forbes 30 Under 30: The Young Leaders Shaping Tomorrow
The Forbes 30 Under 30 list for 2026 has just been revealed, marking the 15th year of spotlighting the brightest young entrepreneurs, innovators, and creators shaping the world. Over the years, the list has become a benchmark for success, highlighting the talent and drive that often lead to billion-dollar ventures. In fact, 46 past honorees have gone on to become Forbes billionaires, proving that these young leaders are more than just rising stars—they’re the future of global business.
This year’s list includes 600 individuals across 20 industries, from finance and technology to arts, sports, and social impact. Together, they represent more than $3.8 billion in cumulative funding and influence over 200 million social media followers worldwide. The average age of the honorees remains 27, and impressively, the youngest is 17-year-old Momin Ahmed, whose Model U.N. Academy platform has helped over 17,000 students globally access Model U.N. resources.
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The 2026 class reflects a diverse generation of trailblazers: 41% self-identify as people of color, 22% are immigrants, and 42% are female or non-binary. Gen Z now makes up 70% of the list, a significant jump from last year, while 68% of honorees are founders or co-founders of companies, demonstrating the entrepreneurial spirit that drives innovation.
AI and technology play a central role this year. Founders are leveraging machine learning in groundbreaking ways, from building robotic astronauts to creating tools that democratize coding and artistry. Jesse Zhang, founder of the $1.5 billion Decagon, raised $255 million to develop AI agents capable of managing customer service for major companies like Duolingo and ClassPass. Meanwhile, innovators like Eric Herrera and Jesse Evans are transforming mining with proteins that dissolve rocks harmlessly, Katherine Sizov is reducing food waste with AI-driven smart sensors, and Jonathan Lord is building electric boat engines reminiscent of a “Tesla of the sea.”
Creative entrepreneurs are thriving too. Claudia Sulewski has turned her YouTube presence into a $15 million body-care brand, Alex Warren transformed social media fame into chart-topping music and arena tours, and Lili Reinhart leveraged her acting success and 30 million followers to launch a skincare company, Personal Day, which generated an estimated $10 million in its first year.
The Forbes 30 Under 30 continues to spotlight young leaders who are reshaping industries, influencing culture, and driving economic growth. Backed by major investors and armed with imagination, intelligence, and determination, these 600 honorees are not just building companies—they’re building the future.
The list is more than just numbers; it’s a glimpse into the minds, innovations, and ambition that will define the next generation of global leaders.
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