Matt Strauss

Matt Strauss is the Founder and former CEO of RiseKit, a software company that connects overlooked job seekers to career opportunities and supportive services.13 He founded RiseKit in December 2017 with the mission of providing all job seekers access to a career path, regardless of their zip code.3 Matt has over 5 years of experience in social entrepreneurship and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.1

Matt's passion for solving social problems stems from his volunteer work mentoring young people from under-resourced communities in Chicago.1 He created RiseKit to break down barriers in workforce development and empower job candidates to access resources and networks they need to thrive.13

In addition to his role at RiseKit, Matt is a Forbes Human Resources Council Influencer and a Guest Contributor for Spiceworks News & Insights, where he writes about topics such as talent acquisition, DEI, social entrepreneurship, and mental health.3

As of May 2024, Matt has transitioned to the role of President and Chairman of the Board at RiseKit, while Josh Glantz has joined as the new CEO.2 This leadership transition allows Matt to focus on building out local, regional, and national employer partnerships while continuing to drive RiseKit's strategic initiatives and long-term growth.2

Matt holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from West Virginia University.3 He has been recognized as one of Crain's Chicago 20 in their 20s in May 2019.3