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Colton Gardner
Co-Founder at Neighbor
Colton Gardner is a co-founder of Neighbor, a company that operates an online marketplace for peer-to-peer and traditional self-storage, often referred to as the "Airbnb of storage." He co-founded Neighbor in 2017 alongside Joseph Woodbury and Preston Alder, with the aim of providing a more affordable and community-oriented storage solution by allowing individuals to rent out their unused spaces, such as garages or RV pads.13
Background and Education
Colton Gardner attended the University of Utah, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance from 2010 to 2016. Prior to founding Neighbor, he had diverse experience in various roles, including serving as the State President of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and working in business development and marketing positions.56 His entrepreneurial journey began with founding Gardner Online Marketing in 2009, which focused on website design and online marketing.5
Role at Neighbor
As a co-founder, Gardner has played a significant role in shaping the company's vision and operations. He has emphasized the importance of community building and data-driven decision-making within the organization. The company has received recognition for its innovative approach to storage solutions, winning several awards and securing funding to support its growth.234
Leadership Style
Gardner's leadership style is characterized by a collaborative approach, valuing diverse perspectives within his team. He has noted that one of the challenges he faces as a leader is recognizing that not everyone thinks alike, which has led him to appreciate the strengths that different team members bring to the table.12
Overall, Colton Gardner's journey reflects a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to fostering community connections through innovative business practices.

