Ben Kovler

Ben Kovler is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, known for his expertise in managing complex operating companies. He is the Founder, CEO and Chairman of Green Thumb Industries, a leading national cannabis consumer packaged goods company and retailer. With a broad portfolio of branded cannabis products including Rythm, Dogwalkers, The Feel Collection, and Beboe, GTI has grown into a rapidly growing national chain of retail cannabis stores. Ben is a distinguished thought leader and media personality in the industry, and has been frequently featured in media outlets like Bloomberg, Barron’s, Business Insider, CNBC and Forbes.

Apart from his professional achievements, Ben is also committed to philanthropy. He is the co-founder and CEO of Invest For Kids, an annual forum that brings together portfolio managers, family offices and analysts to share investment ideas for the benefit of children in Illinois. In its first nine years, IFK has generated over $11 million to benefit over 40 youth organizations that have helped 85,000 children.

Ben is a graduate of Pomona College and The University of Chicago - Booth School of Business, where he studied philosophy, politics and economics, accounting and finance. He currently lives in Chicago with his wife and two children and is actively involved in the Providence St. Mel School and the Academy for Global Citizenship.