For fifteen years, the Under-30 list has served as a launchpad for some of the most transformative young leaders in the United States. What began in 2012 as a bold experiment to spotlight emerging talent has evolved into a national benchmark—one that has identified dozens of future billionaires and introduced industries to trailblazers who would go on to reshape technology, culture, entertainment, sustainability, and manufacturing.

As the 2026 class is unveiled, one thing is clear: the next generation is not waiting for permission to lead. They are building solutions in an era defined by artificial intelligence, sustainability demands, economic uncertainty, and a culture that moves faster than ever. More than 10,000 hopefuls applied this year, but only 600 innovators, disruptors, and founders made the final cut—each of them under 30, never previously featured on any regional Under-30 list, and assessed by a rigorous methodology that values measurable impact, financial viability, and scale potential.

This year’s class includes brilliant AI builders, category-defining food entrepreneurs, creators-turned-founders, and inventors reimagining everything from mining to maritime travel. And as the world embraces an AI-driven future, many honorees are already several steps ahead.

One standout is Jesse Zhang, founder of Decagon—a rapidly growing AI company valued at $1.5 billion. Zhang has secured over $255 million in funding by creating AI agents capable of handling customer support for major consumer brands, signaling a future in which machine intelligence and human empathy merge to deliver faster, more intuitive service. “Technology shifts open new doors,” Zhang explained in a recent interview. “But knowing which ideas matter—that’s the entrepreneur’s true test.”

Across the food and beverage sector, creative disruption is underway. Founders Troy Bonde and Winston Alfieri are rewriting the rules of pasta sauce with their vibrant brand Sauz, which blends bold, unexpected flavors with a Gen Z aesthetic. Their Calabrian vodka sauce has already become a weekly bestseller at California’s Erewhon markets, and the pair projects more than $15 million in revenue by the end of 2025. Their strategy is simple: meet modern tastebuds where they are, not where tradition expects them to be.

Other food pioneers are betting big on clean ingredients, sustainable farming, and consumer transparency. Clear protein brand Seeq—created by young founders who started with little more than an idea and a willingness to experiment—has grown from a pandemic-era hobby into a multimillion-dollar operation selling at nearly 2,000 Target stores. Their product line has exploded in popularity as consumers abandon chalky, outdated protein powders for something fresher, lighter, and more innovative.

Creators are also making their mark as serious entrepreneurs. YouTuber Claudia Sulewski has built a thriving body-care empire projected to hit eight figures this year. Singer and former creator Alex Warren has transitioned into a full-scale music career, with billions of streams and a U.S. arena tour. Meanwhile, actress and Under-30 alum Lili Reinhart has leveraged her star power to launch a skincare brand generating more than $10 million in its first year.

Of this year’s 600 honorees, 27% are women, 41% identify as people of color, and 84% are founders—a powerful reflection of the diversity shaping today’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Collectively, the list boasts more than $3.8 billion in total raised capital, 200 million followers across social platforms, and the kind of creativity that signals a new era of innovation.

The Under-30 list is no longer merely an honor—it is a snapshot of where the future is headed. And if the 2026 class is any indication, that future is bright, inclusive, and fueled by relentless imagination.

FAQ

Q1: What is the Forbes Under-30 list?
It’s an annual ranking highlighting 600 of the most innovative U.S.-based leaders under the age of 30 across 20 industries.

Q2: How are candidates selected?
Candidates are evaluated on impact, financial performance, innovation, and potential for long-term growth.

Q3: What industries dominate the 2026 list?
AI, food and drink, sustainable tech, entertainment, manufacturing, and creator-led brands.

Q4: How many applicants were considered this year?
More than 10,000 individuals applied for inclusion in the 2026 list.

Q5: What makes the 2026 class unique?
Its strong representation of AI founders, eco-conscious innovators, and creators building high-earning consumer brands.