APEX, NC, October 14, 2025 – The Brian Hamilton Foundation announced today the appointment of Barry Mattson as chief executive officer. A combat veteran and seasoned nonprofit leader, Mattson has spent his life clearing obstacles so others can rise—on battlefields, in boardrooms, and across communities that have been left behind.
Mattson previously served as CEO of Rise Against Hunger, guiding global teams tackling hunger and resilience. His work spans international humanitarian efforts with Grey Bull Rescue, launching community-driven initiatives with Combined Arms and The Mission Continues, and advising governments through Gobez International.
“Barry brings the experience and bias for action to scale our impact,” said Brian Hamilton, founder and chairman. “We are moving fast to expand programs for veterans and youth and roll out the new Starter U. Under Barry’s leadership, we intend to open the door of entrepreneurship for people across the world.”
Mattson leads with clarity and trust, putting purpose first and execution right behind it. At the Brian Hamilton Foundation, he will drive a bold expansion of entrepreneurship education and opportunity, turning ideas into first customers, first invoices, and real income for families.
“I’m honored to join a foundation that bets on people,” Mattson said. “Entrepreneurship is a way out and a way up. Our job is to make that path clear and within reach—no matter where someone starts.”
About the Brian Hamilton Foundation
The Brian Hamilton Foundation believes in entrepreneurship for all. The organization’s mission is to increase business ownership across the world because it is the most reliable way to remove the socioeconomic barriers to freedom. We teach people why and how to start businesses, mostly simple businesses that do not require capital.
Part of the Brian Hamilton Foundation’s offerings are Starter U and Starter High—free, on-demand entrepreneurship courses for adults and youth, which have been taken by more than 30,000 people. To learn more, visit brianhamilton.org.
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