Forbes profiles how Jeremy Gardner, a college dropout turned crypto millionaire, built the Blockchain Education Network into 500+ university chapters worldwide.
How Millionaire Jeremy Gardner Built the Largest Blockchain Education Network Around the World
Originally published in Forbes by Robyn Shulman on February 16, 2018.
Jeremy Gardner, a college dropout turned crypto millionaire, co-founded the Blockchain Education Network (BEN) with the vision of bringing blockchain education to university students worldwide. What started as a grassroots student movement has grown into the largest and longest-running network of blockchain students, professors, and alumni across the globe.
From Dorm Room to Global Network
Gardner's journey began at the University of Michigan, where he became fascinated with Bitcoin and blockchain technology. Recognizing that universities were slow to adopt blockchain curricula, he took matters into his own hands and began organizing student groups focused on cryptocurrency and blockchain education.
In 2014, Gardner and a group of like-minded students launched the Blockchain Education Network, connecting student blockchain clubs across college campuses. The network quickly expanded, growing to chapters in universities across the United States and eventually spanning over 35 countries.
Building a Movement
BEN's approach was simple but effective: empower students to learn about blockchain technology by connecting them with peers, mentors, and resources. The network provided:
- Educational resources for students at every level
- Conference access connecting students with industry leaders
- Hackathon support for hands-on blockchain development experience
- Career pathways into the growing blockchain industry
- Community bringing together passionate builders from diverse backgrounds
A Launchpad for Innovation
The network became more than just an educational organization -- it became a launchpad for some of the most successful projects in the blockchain space. Alumni and members of the BEN ecosystem have gone on to build projects with billions of dollars in combined valuations.
Gardner himself co-founded Augur, a decentralized prediction market platform that reached a peak valuation of over $1 billion. His story exemplifies the kind of entrepreneurial energy that BEN continues to foster in students around the world.
Legacy and Impact
Today, BEN continues its mission of making blockchain education accessible, practical, and community-driven. The network spans 500+ universities, 80+ active clubs, and operates in 10+ countries, making it one of the most impactful organizations in blockchain education.