Peopledelphia + Saxbys
If cafe culture has taught us anything, it’s that we live in a city of makers, dreamers, and self-starters who grind beyond the 9 to 5. So we teamed up with Philly’s most camera-savvy storyteller, Peopledelphia, to celebrate the side hustle that makes our city stand out. Follow @peopledelphia &@saxbys_coffee on Instagram as we profile people who are making things happen in our city (and putting in the work at our cafes).
Our second interview is with Scholly CEO Chris Gray, a Drexel University grad who, at age 24, has already established himself has a power player in the city. As a college student, Gray went through great lengths to find and apply for scholarships. Motivated by a desire to ease the application process, Gray created Scholly and has since helped thousands of families find more than $15 million in funding. Gray chatted with us about his journey, his future and his controversial Shark Tank appearance.
Tell us about you. What projects are you working on right now?
I am the founder and CEO of Scholly, an app that helps students find money for college. We have been on Shark Tank, landing a deal with Daymond John and Lori Greiner. I am a Forbes 30 Under 30 Honoree and a 2015 Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year for Greater Philadelphia.
What (or who) inspires you to be better?
One of my biggest entrepreneurial role models is Bill Gates. Not only did he give me a full ride to pay for college, but I admire his path from entrepreneurship to philanthropy. Also, he’s just incredibly smart (duh).
How has Philly helped you find your footing? How has the city helped you succeed?
Philadelphia has given my company access to capital through Start Up PHL, the ability to meet amazing mentors like Josh Kopelman, Saxbys CEO Nick Bayer, and others. The city also have me access to great talent to build a team about my vision for my company.
What would you change about Philadelphia?
I would change the marketing strategy of the city. I think Philly has more to offer than people think, but those things aren’t marketed well so people aren’t aware of the amazing quality of life here.
What do you wish more people knew about Philadelphia?
People really should know about all the great events that go on here and that the cost of living is relatively low.
What makes you the happiest?
What makes me happiest right now is building a company that helps people.
