Matt Mullenweg: Wordpress Co-Founder
Technology innovator and open-source pioneer Matt Mullenweg co-founded WordPress and leads Automattic, shaping the future of digital publishing, distributed work, and the open web.
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- Co-founder of WordPress, the world’s leading content management system
- Founder and CEO of Automattic, a fully distributed global company
- Advocate for open-source software and digital ownership
- Founder of Audrey Capital, supporting innovative technology ventures
- Formats: Technology keynote speaker, entrepreneur, and open-source thought leader
- Audiences: Technology leaders, entrepreneurs, developers, digital creators, business executives, and organizations navigating the future of work and innovation
- Outcomes:
- Clear understanding of open-source principles and their business impact
- Insight into the future of digital publishing and distributed teams
- Inspiration to build scalable, people-centered technology ecosystems
- Travels from: Houston, TX
- **Fee range: $50,001 - $75,000
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
Why Working From Home is Good for Business
With the confinement of cities and even entire countries during the Coronavirus COVID-19 crisis, many companies were forced to send their workers home and implement telework in record time. Matt Mullenweg, a successful entrepreneur at various companies such as WordPress or WooCommerce, already had an organizational culture in place for years that effectively allowed its workers to work from home, with excellent results.
In 2017, he sold the company’s offices in San Francisco because almost no employee used them anymore. Since then, all of his companies have a 100 percent distributed workforce. In this keynote, Matt will talk about the great benefits for workers but also for companies of adopting work-at-home models that foster flexibility and allows employees to effectively combine their private and work lives in our complicated and fast-changing world.
Entrepreneurship: The Story of WordPress
In 2003, when he was just 19 years old, Matt Mullenweg was already a pioneering blogger. When the developer of the software he used for blogging, b2, disappeared and stopped updating it, Matt decided to clone the program and improve it so that everyone could continue blogging. And thus, WordPress was born.
Today, almost two decades later, WordPress is responsible for creating 30% of Internet websites and is the undisputed market leader. Matt Mullenweg, now a multi-millionaire successful entrepreneur, will tell in this keynote his success story not only founding WordPress but many other companies that he has founded and are now used by millions of users around the globe.
Talent Short Bio
Matt Mullenweg is the visionary co-founder of WordPress and CEO of Automattic, widely recognized for transforming how the world creates and shares content online. His work in open-source software has democratized publishing, enabling millions of individuals and organizations to build and own their digital presence.
Born in Houston, Texas, Matt’s early interests in technology and music led him to study jazz saxophone at the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. While attending the University of Houston, he became deeply involved in blogging and open-source development, contributing to the b2 project. In 2003, at the age of 19, he partnered with Mike Little to launch WordPress, an open-source platform designed to make publishing accessible to everyone.
Under Matt’s leadership, WordPress has grown into the world’s most widely used content management system, powering more than 40 percent of the top 10 million websites. In 2005, he founded Automattic, the company behind WordPress.com, WooCommerce, Jetpack, and other influential products, while championing a fully distributed global workforce. He also founded Audrey Capital to support innovative startups and research.
Read Full Bio
Matt Mullenweg, the visionary co-founder of WordPress and CEO of Automattic, has been a transformative force in the digital publishing world. His pioneering work in open-source web development has democratized online content creation, empowering millions globally. As a speaker, Matt captivates audiences with his insights into technology, entrepreneurship, and the future of work.
Born on January 11, 1984, in Houston, Texas, Matt’s early passion for technology and music led him to the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, where he studied jazz saxophone. His journey into web development began during his time at the University of Houston, where he delved into blogging and became an active contributor to the b2 project, the precursor to WordPress. In 2003, at just 19, Matt partnered with Mike Little to create WordPress, aiming to enhance the blogging experience with a user-friendly, open-source platform.
Under Matt’s leadership, WordPress has evolved into the world’s most popular content management system, powering over 40% of the top 10 million websites. In 2005, he founded Automattic, the company behind WordPress.com, WooCommerce, and Jetpack, further solidifying his influence in the tech industry. Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Matt established Audrey Capital, an investment and research company supporting innovative startups.
Matt’s commitment to open-source principles and distributed work models has positioned him as a thought leader in modern business practices. His annual “State of the Word” addresses offer valuable perspectives on the evolving digital landscape, reflecting his deep understanding of technology and its societal impacts.
Event planners seeking a speaker who embodies innovation and forward-thinking leadership will find Matt Mullenweg to be an exceptional choice. His presentations are not only informative but also inspire audiences to embrace change and think creatively. Matt’s ability to connect with diverse audiences and share his journey from a young developer to a leading tech entrepreneur makes him a compelling addition to any event.
In summary, Matt Mullenweg’s profound impact on web development and his visionary approach to business make him a sought-after speaker for conferences and events focused on technology, innovation, and the future of work. His story is a testament to the power of open-source collaboration and the potential of embracing new paradigms in the digital age.
Hashtags:
#MattMullenweg #WordPress #Automattic #OpenSource #FutureOfWork #DistributedWork #TechInnovation
View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter
Videos
Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry
No reviews available for this post.
Talent FAQ's
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses and other costs
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Deposits and securing a booking
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
Additional tips and takeaways
- Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
- There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
- Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
- When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
- Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
- Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
- Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
You may be interested in...
- (14)
- (2)
Aniyia Williams is an entrepreneur, thought leader, and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. She is a systempreneur, creator, inventor, tech changemaker, and investor. She is a principal on the Responsible Technology team at Omidyar Network, and works to help the tech world live up to its promise of changing lives for […]
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- Digital Speakers
- (42)
Dan Chuparkoff is a keynote speaker with more than 25 years of hands-on, team-transformation experience at organizations of all shapes and sizes. He’s been a leader at Google, McKinsey, Atlassian, and an impressive array of startups and enterprises. He has consulted with countless other teams on AI, innovation, change-management, and collaboration. Dan’s clients have included […]
- Travels from: Chicago, IL
- Innovation Speakers
- (16)
Julia Collins is a trailblazing figure in the world of technology and entrepreneurship, making history as the first Black woman to achieve “unicorn” status with her tech company. As the Founder and CEO of Planet Forward, she has garnered international acclaim for her innovative approach to addressing climate change through technology. With a unique blend […]
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- STEM Speakers
- (76)
In a world teeming with motivational speakers and thought leaders, few individuals manage to stand out quite like Vishen Lakhiani. Vishen Lakhiani journey as a keynote speaker began with a vision, a vision that would evolve into his groundbreaking concept of “The Code of the Extraordinary Mind.” Born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Vishen’s early life […]
- Travels from: New York, NY
- Motivational Speakers
- (81)
Aileen Lee is the founder of Cowboy Ventures. She partners at the earliest stages with enterprise and consumer-oriented startup teams to build products customers love, and to help teams build aspirational companies. She has over two decades of experience starting at seed stage and staying involved for many years beyond. Prior to Cowboy, Aileen spent […]
- Travels from: Palo Alto, CA
- Innovation Speakers
- (60)
Dr. Gregory Stock stands at the forefront of biotechnology and bioethics, offering profound insights into the evolving landscape of life sciences. As a biotech entrepreneur, best-selling author, and esteemed public communicator, he delves into the intricate interplay between advanced technologies and their societal implications. His compelling narratives challenge audiences to contemplate the future of human […]
- Travels from: Boise, ID
- Healthcare Speakers
- (18)
Dr. Catriona Wallace is a globally recognized thought leader in artificial intelligence (AI), ethics, and digital transformation. A trailblazer in the tech industry, Dr. Wallace is one of the few women at the helm of an AI-driven enterprise, leading the charge to create technology that not only solves problems but also fosters positive societal impact. […]
- Travels from: Sydney, NSW
- Artificial Intelligence
- (14)
Dr. Astrid J. Scholz is co-founder and CFO/COO of Armillaria, a tech-for-good company that creates digital infrastructure for more effectively and equitably mobilizing data, people, and capital towards addressing the most urgent challenges of our time. Integrating contemporary innovations in technology, finance, and law, Armillaria is focused on the development of incentives and mechanisms for […]
- Travels from: Portland, OR
- Entrepreneurship
Disclaimer
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
