October 4, 1978, marked the birth of Garrett Camp in Calgary, Canada. A software engineer and entrepreneur, he moved from early academic work in electrical and software engineering to developing large-scale digital platforms. His career spans the creation of personalized search technology, ride-sharing infrastructure, and the establishment of a startup studio model in the technology sector.
Academic Background
Camp grew up in Calgary, the son of an economist and an artist. He attended the University of Calgary, where he completed a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering in 2001. His academic focus continued with a master's degree in software engineering, specializing in evolutionary algorithms, collaborative systems, and information retrieval methods.
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In 2002, Camp co-founded StumbleUpon, an early personalized search engine platform. eBay acquired the company in 2007, though it was later spun out in 2009. Camp continued to manage the service until his departure in 2012. He later reacquired StumbleUpon in 2015, eventually transitioning its operations into Mix, a venture project supported by his later firm, Expa Labs.
Development of Uber
Camp founded Uber, originally titled UberCab, in 2009. The service scaled operations throughout the United States and international markets starting in 2011. He served on the company's board of directors until 2020, transitioning thereafter to the role of board observer. In 2022, his involvement in the company's formation was depicted in the drama series Super Pumped, featuring actor Jon Bass.
Philanthropy and Investments
Beyond his founding roles, Camp has invested in entities including BlackJet, a private aviation service, and Prism Skylabs. In 2017, he signed The Giving Pledge, committing to donate at least half of his wealth to charitable causes. Through the Camp Foundation, he supports organizations such as Every.org, which facilitates technological infrastructure for nonprofit donation processing.
Fast facts
- Born: 1978, Calgary, Canada
- Education: University of Calgary, Haskayne School of Business
- Net Worth: US$6.18 billion as of February 2024
- Notable Ventures: StumbleUpon, Uber, Expa Labs
- Notable Awards: Tribeca Disruptive Innovation Awards (2013)
- Residence: Los Angeles
Questions readers ask
What is the Camp Foundation's primary purpose?
It funds nonprofit projects, including the technology platform Every.org, which assists other nonprofits in processing various forms of donations.
Did Garrett Camp leave Uber?
He left the board of directors in 2020 but remains a board observer.
Achievements
- Educated at University of Calgary and Haskayne School of Business
