Jeremy Gardner experienced a remarkable financial windfall when Bitcoin’s value surged, doubling his net worth in just five days. He founded the Blockchain Education Network to support student cryptocurrency enthusiasts worldwide. A transformative moment in South Africa during AfrikaBurn left Gardner awestruck, as he reconnected to find his assets had soared due to Bitcoin surpassing $2,500.
“I saw Bitcoin break $2,500—all crypto assets exploded in value,” Gardner shared with Business Insider. Reflecting on Bitcoin, Gardner emphasized its revolutionary impact since its 2008 inception as a decentralized payment system enabling anonymous transactions without intermediaries.
Amid the cryptocurrency boom of 2017, Bitcoin’s value rose dramatically, with Gardner, at just 25 years old, becoming a millionaire through astute investments in blockchain technology. “I’ve made more money than I ever expected by dedicating my life to crypto assets and blockchain technology,” Gardner noted.
His unconventional path involved leaving college twice to work part-time at a venture capital firm focusing on cryptocurrency-related businesses. Gardner’s fascination with Bitcoin was sparked by the Silk Road scandal in 2013, leading him to invest early and advocate its transformative potential globally.
Recognizing Bitcoin’s capacity for borderless value exchange, Gardner shifted much of his assets into Bitcoin investments, becoming known as a “Bitcoin booster” on social media and establishing the Blockchain Education Network in 2014 to connect cryptocurrency clubs worldwide.
Gardner’s influence grew within the Bitcoin community as he launched Augur, a blockchain-based market forecasting tool, raising $5.3 million through crowdfunding in 2015. He currently serves at Blockchain Capital, advising and sourcing investments in cryptocurrency-related startups, alongside a secret startup project.
Living in San Francisco’s Crypto Castle with fellow tech entrepreneurs, Gardner’s investment gains sustain his lifestyle, supporting a community where technology development converges around cryptocurrencies. He emphasizes long-term goals despite Bitcoin’s volatile price fluctuations, aiming to contribute back to the industry that enriched him.
Through the Blockchain Education Network, Gardner fosters educational initiatives, career opportunities, and community engagement, underscoring his commitment to the sector’s growth and future.