Alexis Ohanian, born on April 24, 1983, in Brooklyn, New York, is a renowned technology entrepreneur, investor, and advocate for open internet and social equity. Best known as the co-founder of Reddit, Ohanian has played a significant role in shaping the digital landscape. As of 2025, his estimated net worth stands at $150 million, thanks to his successful ventures in technology, investments, and activism.
Early Life and Education
Alexis Kerry Ohanian was born to Anke and Chris Ohanian. His grandparents were Armenian refugees, which instilled a sense of resilience and determination in Ohanian from a young age. Raised in Ellicott City, Maryland, Ohanian graduated from Howard High School in 2001 as the student speaker. He later attended the University of Virginia, earning degrees in commerce and history in 2005. During his time at UVA, Ohanian became a member of the professional business fraternity Alpha Kappa Psi, where his passion for technology and business flourished.
Founding Reddit and Early Success
In 2005, Ohanian co-founded Reddit with Steve Huffman. Initially envisioned as a news aggregation site where users could share and rank content, Reddit quickly gained traction and became a central hub for online communities. The platform was part of Y Combinator’s first batch of startups and was sold to Conde Nast in 2006 for an estimated $10–20 million.
Although Ohanian stepped back from day-to-day operations after the sale, he remained on Reddit’s board and returned as a full-time employee in 2015. He eventually stepped down in 2018 to focus on venture capital and activism. In a notable move during 2020, Ohanian resigned from Reddit’s board, urging the company to replace him with a Black candidate. This led to the appointment of Michael Seibel, an influential entrepreneur and advocate for diversity in tech.
Initialized Capital and Investments
Ohanian’s entrepreneurial journey extended into venture capital with the founding of Initialized Capital in 2010. The firm has managed over $3 billion in assets and has been instrumental in supporting early-stage startups. Notable investments include Coinbase, Instacart, Opendoor, and Cruise. Initialized Capital’s early $200,000 investment in Coinbase in 2012 has proven particularly lucrative, given the company’s subsequent valuation in the billions.
Ohanian’s interest in cryptocurrency extends beyond Coinbase. In a 2023 interview, he revealed an early investment of $15,000 in Ethereum in 2014, which has significantly appreciated in value, underscoring his foresight in emerging technologies.
Other Ventures and Contributions
In addition to Reddit and Initialized Capital, Ohanian has founded or contributed to several other ventures:
- Breadpig (2007): An online marketplace for “geeky” products, with profits donated to charitable causes.
- Hipmunk: A travel search company where he served as marketing director.
- Das Kapital Capital: A company focused on startup advising and investing.
Ohanian’s influence also extends to media and advocacy. He authored Without Their Permission: How the 21st Century Will Be Made, Not Managed, which became a Wall Street Journal bestseller. His podcast and online series, such as Small Empires, explore entrepreneurial stories and the evolving tech landscape.
Activism and Advocacy
A staunch advocate for net neutrality, Ohanian has led several initiatives to protect an open internet. He played a key role in the national anti-SOPA/PIPA protests in 2012 and lobbied the FCC in favor of net neutrality regulations. His activism earned him the title of “Mayor of the Internet” from Forbes and a place among the top influential activists of 2012 by The Daily Dot.
Ohanian is also a vocal proponent of paid family leave. After experiencing the challenges of parenthood firsthand, he has used his platform to advocate for universal parental leave policies in the U.S., even writing about his experiences in The New York Times.
Personal Life and Family
Ohanian began dating tennis superstar Serena Williams in 2015. The couple announced their engagement in December 2016 and married in November 2017. They welcomed their first daughter, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr., in September 2017. In early 2023, the couple announced they were expecting their second child. The family resides in Florida, balancing high-profile careers with a commitment to family life.
Net Worth and Financial Milestones
As of 2025, Ohanian’s net worth is estimated at $150 million. His wealth is derived from various sources:
- Reddit Sale: Estimated earnings of $10–20 million from the 2006 sale to Conde Nast.
- Venture Capital: Profitable investments through Initialized Capital, including early stakes in Coinbase and Instacart.
- Cryptocurrency: Significant appreciation of his Ethereum investment, worth tens of millions today.
Lifestyle and Philanthropy
Despite his wealth, Ohanian maintains a grounded lifestyle. He is deeply committed to philanthropy, supporting initiatives like Black Girls Code and campaigns for social equity. His partnership with Lester Chambers for a Kickstarter campaign and his efforts to fundraise for STEM education reflect his dedication to giving back.
Legacy and Future Endeavors
Alexis Ohanian’s career exemplifies the transformative power of technology and the importance of ethical leadership. From co-founding Reddit to championing net neutrality and paid parental leave, his influence extends beyond the tech industry into broader societal issues.
Looking ahead, Ohanian continues to shape the future of technology and activism. His work at Initialized Capital and his advocacy for diversity and equity ensure his enduring relevance in the digital age. As a tech visionary, family man, and activist, Alexis Ohanian’s story inspires a new generation of innovators to build a better, more inclusive world.