JON STEINBERG
Founder and CEO at Cheddar Inc.
About
Jon Steinberg is the visionary Founder and CEO of Cheddar Inc., a pioneering live streaming news network. As an influential entrepreneur and investor, he focuses on disruptive media technologies, digital content platforms, and consumer internet startups. His career spans leadership roles at Google and BuzzFeed, shaping the future of digital media.
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Experience
Deep Dive
Jon Steinberg stands as a prominent figure in the digital media landscape, renowned for his entrepreneurial vision and strategic leadership. As the Founder and CEO of Cheddar Inc., he spearheaded the creation of a groundbreaking live streaming news network that redefined how financial and business news is consumed. Launched in 2016, Cheddar quickly distinguished itself by targeting a younger, digitally native audience with engaging, direct-to-consumer content, broadcast from innovative locations like the New York Stock Exchange. Steinberg's foresight in recognizing the shift from traditional cable to streaming platforms positioned Cheddar as a pioneer in the "post-cable" era, ultimately leading to its acquisition by Altice USA in 2019 and later by Fox Corporation in 2021.
Steinberg's investment focus areas are deeply rooted in his extensive career experience, primarily revolving around disruptive media technologies, digital content creation, and consumer internet platforms. He is particularly interested in companies that leverage technology to innovate how content is produced, distributed, and monetized, including areas like streaming services, ad tech, social media platforms, and SaaS solutions for media companies. His track record suggests a keen eye for ventures that can scale rapidly and capture significant market share in evolving digital ecosystems.
Before founding Cheddar, Steinberg held pivotal leadership roles that shaped his expertise and investment philosophy. From 2010 to 2014, he served as President and COO of BuzzFeed, where he was instrumental in transforming the nascent viral content site into a global media powerhouse. During his tenure, he significantly grew BuzzFeed's audience, diversified its revenue streams, and built out its operational infrastructure, cementing its status as a leader in digital publishing. Prior to BuzzFeed, Steinberg spent several years at Google, where he was Head of Global Product and Revenue for News and Publishing. In this role, he focused on developing monetization strategies and product innovations for Google's vast network of news partners, gaining invaluable insights into the intricacies of online content and advertising.
Jon Steinberg's career trajectory underscores his consistent ability to identify emerging trends and build successful businesses in dynamic environments. His journey from a law background to a leading media tech entrepreneur highlights a versatile skill set encompassing strategic vision, operational excellence, and a deep understanding of digital consumer behavior. While specific individual investments are often private, his influence as an investor and advisor is felt across the startup ecosystem, particularly among founders aiming to revolutionize media and technology. He continues to be a sought-after voice on the future of media, content strategy, and venture capital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jon Steinberg?
Jon Steinberg is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and media executive, best known as the Founder and CEO of Cheddar Inc. He previously held leadership roles at BuzzFeed and Google, driving innovation in digital media.
What does Jon Steinberg invest in?
Jon Steinberg primarily invests in and advises companies within the digital media, content technology, consumer internet, and streaming sectors. His focus is on disruptive platforms and innovative business models shaping the future of media.
Where does Jon Steinberg work?
Jon Steinberg founded Cheddar Inc., serving as its CEO. After its acquisition by Altice USA and subsequent sale to Fox Corporation, he continues to be an influential figure in the media and tech investment landscape, often involved in new ventures and advisory roles.