When discussing modern entrepreneurs who have shaped the digital age, the name Alexis Ohanian stands out prominently. Best known as the co-founder of Reddit, Ohanian has gone beyond his early tech success to establish himself as a respected venture capitalist, investor, philanthropist, and advocate for equality in sports and technology. His influence spans across industries—tech startups, venture capital, women’s sports, and digital rights. This article dives deep into Ohanian’s life, career journey, personal background, financial achievements, and the lasting impact he continues to make.
Early Life and Education
Alexis Kerry Ohanian was born on April 24, 1983, in Brooklyn, New York, to an Armenian-American father, Chris Ohanian, and a German-born mother, Anke Ohanian. His Armenian heritage is deeply important to him, especially considering his family’s history with the Armenian Genocide. Ohanian has often spoken about resilience, survival, and legacy—values that inspire his approach to business and philanthropy.
He attended Howard High School in Ellicott City, Maryland, where his flair for technology and creative thinking became evident. Later, he pursued higher education at the University of Virginia, graduating in 2005 with degrees in commerce and history. During his college years, Ohanian’s entrepreneurial spirit began to blossom, setting the stage for what was to come.
The Birth of Reddit
In 2005, Alexis Ohanian, along with his friend Steve Huffman, created a platform that would soon revolutionize the way people engage with online communities—Reddit. Initially pitched as a platform for ordering food, their idea evolved into a space for sharing links, discussions, and user-generated content. Reddit’s tagline, “the front page of the internet,” became a reality as millions of users flocked to the site.
Later that same year, Reddit was acquired by Condé Nast Publications for an estimated $10–20 million. Although Ohanian and Huffman initially moved on from Reddit after the acquisition, their creation grew exponentially, becoming one of the most visited websites globally.
Ohanian later returned to Reddit in 2014 as executive chairman and played a significant role in guiding the company during a period of rapid expansion. However, in 2020, he stepped down from Reddit’s board, urging that his seat be filled by a Black candidate in the wake of social justice movements. His decision showcased not only leadership but also social responsibility.
Venture Capital and Business Success
After selling Reddit, Ohanian shifted his focus toward venture capital and startup investing. His next major move was co-founding Initialized Capital in 2010, alongside Garry Tan. The firm gained recognition for its early and successful investments in companies such as:
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Coinbase (cryptocurrency exchange)
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Instacart (grocery delivery platform)
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Opendoor (real estate platform)
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Ro (healthcare startup)
Initialized Capital grew to manage over $3.2 billion in assets, cementing Ohanian’s place as one of Silicon Valley’s sharpest investors.
In 2020, he launched his new venture capital firm, Seven Seven Six (776). This firm focused on building technology companies with a strong emphasis on ethics, long-term sustainability, and social good. By 2025, 776 had nearly $1 billion under management, with investments in platforms like Kickstarter and Feastables.
Net Worth and Financial Achievements
As of 2024–2025, Alexis Ohanian’s net worth is estimated at around $150 million. His wealth comes primarily from:
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Reddit – As co-founder and former executive chairman, Ohanian retained some equity after its IPO.
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Venture Capital – Through Initialized Capital and 776, he invested in billion-dollar companies like Coinbase and Instacart.
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Sports Investments – Ohanian has a keen eye for investing in women’s sports teams and organizations.
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Startups & Advisory Roles – He continues to back innovative startups and serves as a mentor for budding entrepreneurs.
Together with his wife, Serena Williams, their combined net worth is estimated at over $400 million, making them a power couple at the intersection of sports, business, and culture.
Championing Women’s Sports
Ohanian’s investments extend beyond tech. He is deeply passionate about women’s sports and believes they are vastly undervalued in today’s world.
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In 2020, he became a founding investor in Angel City FC, a women’s professional soccer team in Los Angeles. The team’s rapid success validated his vision, and in 2024, Angel City FC was sold for around £192 million, a record in women’s sports.
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In 2025, Ohanian purchased an 8–10% stake in Chelsea Women FC for approximately £20 million and joined the club’s board. His involvement is seen as a turning point for the growth and recognition of women’s soccer globally.
His advocacy is not limited to financial backing—Ohanian actively promotes equality, visibility, and opportunities for women athletes.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Beyond business and sports, Ohanian is an outspoken advocate for internet freedom, equality, and philanthropy. He has supported numerous causes, including:
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Net Neutrality – He has been a vocal supporter of an open and free internet.
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Parental Leave – After becoming a father, Ohanian campaigned for paid paternity leave across the U.S., highlighting the importance of family support.
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Social Justice – Stepping down from Reddit’s board in 2020 symbolized his commitment to inclusivity and equality.
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Armenian Causes – He frequently donates to Armenian charities and works to raise awareness about Armenian history and culture.
Personal Life
Ohanian’s personal life is equally high-profile, thanks to his marriage to Serena Williams, one of the greatest tennis players in history. The couple married in 2017 and share two daughters, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr. and Adira River Ohanian.
Despite being married to a global superstar, Ohanian maintains his identity as a dedicated entrepreneur and father. He is often praised for his supportive role in Serena’s career and his commitment to family life, often sharing candid moments with his family on social media.
Legacy and Influence
Alexis Ohanian’s story is more than just financial success—it is about vision, advocacy, and creating meaningful change. From building Reddit to backing billion-dollar startups and empowering women in sports, Ohanian has consistently demonstrated foresight and a willingness to challenge norms.
He represents a new wave of entrepreneurs who not only chase profits but also use their influence to shape culture and society positively. His legacy lies not just in the millions he has earned but in the opportunities and platforms he has helped create for others.
Conclusion
Alexis Ohanian’s journey from a college graduate with a big idea to a globally recognized entrepreneur and philanthropist is nothing short of inspirational. His contributions to technology, venture capital, and women’s sports position him as a visionary leader who values impact as much as wealth. As he continues to shape industries and advocate for positive change, Alexis Ohanian remains a figure of great relevance in today’s interconnected world.
For readers who want more insightful stories about influential figures like Ohanian, don’t forget to check out The Globe Gist, where we dive deeper into the lives and legacies of remarkable people shaping our world.
Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, became Serena’s partner in both life and love. Their union brought together worlds of sports and technology. Yet the true heart of their bond is found in their children — beginning with their first daughter, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr.
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