Foursquare launched as a location-based social networking service in 2009, driven by Naveen Selvadurai and co-founder Dennis Crowley. The mobile platform utilized GPS technology and OpenStreetMap data to allow users to check in at various physical venues. This venture became a defining project in the early era of smartphone-integrated social connectivity and digital gaming mechanics.
Academic and Early Professional Foundation
Born in Chennai, India, in 1982, Selvadurai later moved to the United States. He attended Torrington High School before enrolling at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. During his four-year tenure there, he earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Computer Science. His academic path included a five-month study abroad program at King's College London. Before establishing his own venture, he held positions at Lucent, Sony, Nokia, and Sun Microsystems.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Operations and Departure from Foursquare
Foursquare introduced a system where users gained points and badges for visiting locations, creating a competitive environment for titles such as mayor. In March 2012, Selvadurai announced his exit from daily operational roles. He noted that the company structure offered limited positions for founders aside from the CEO. Before his formal departure, he sold his equity in the company to Spark Capital and transitioned into an advisory and board member capacity.
Startup Studio Integration
In May 2013, Garrett Camp established Expa, a startup studio. Selvadurai joined this organization as a partner. His primary focus within the firm was the management and oversight of operations based in New York. Throughout his career, he has appeared on the Fox Business Network and participated in Fareed Zakaria’s CNN special, Getting America Back to #1.
Fast facts
- Born: January 27, 1982, Chennai, India
- Education: Worcester Polytechnic Institute; King's College London
- Co-founded Foursquare: 2009
- Stepped down from Foursquare operations: March 2012
- Joined Expa: 2013
- Spouse: Diana Marie Hardeman (married 2017)
- Citizenship: United States; India
Questions readers ask
What was the main function of Foursquare?
It was a mobile social networking service that enabled users to check in at venues using GPS or network data.
Where did Naveen Selvadurai work after leaving Foursquare?
He joined the startup studio Expa as a partner overseeing New York operations.
Achievements
- Educated at King's College London and Worcester Polytechnic Institute
