Forbes Under 30 Summit 2026 Opens in Phoenix with Speakers and Events

The 2026 Forbes Under 30 Summit started in Phoenix on Sunday, featuring a performance by artist Don Toliver. Toliver performed songs from his album 'OCTANE,' which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Hundreds of attendees, including young entrepreneurs and business leaders, gathered for the four-day event.

Other options included pickleball, a basketball clinic with NBA staff, and a Diamondbacks game at Chase Field.

Monday, Randall Lane, Forbes Chief Content Officer, opened the programming by discussing opportunities for young entrepreneurs. Lane stated that digital natives and AI natives are building companies faster than before. He described the current period as one where being young provides an advantage in entrepreneurship.

Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, welcomed attendees and noted Arizona's growth as a hub for global industry. Watson said global leaders choose Arizona for its support, talent pools, and opportunities. She highlighted investments across industries attracting founders to Phoenix.

of Famer Dwyane Wade

spoke with Moira Forbes about his transition to business and investing after retiring at age 37. Wade said his drive comes from family and community, and he emphasized work ethic, patience, and relationships in business. He compared immediate satisfaction in basketball to the slower pace of business outcomes.

Lindsey Carter, founder of SET Active, and Jake Karls, cofounder of Mid-Day Squares, discussed building brands through community and storytelling. Carter focused on involving customers in decisions, while Karls emphasized transparency in sharing the company's story.