September 10

Isaac Kaufmann Funk was an American clergyman-turned-publisher who co-founded Funk & Wagnalls in 1877. After training as a Presbyterian minister, he shifted his focus to producing reference works that were both scholarly and accessible. The company became renowned for its dictionaries, encyclopedias, and popular ready-reference publications. Funk's dedication to education and literacy helped democratize knowledge for schools and households across America. His entrepreneurial spirit set new standards in publishing and left a lasting legacy in the world of lexicography.

Abel Hoadley was an innovative confectioner and businessman who emigrated from England to Australia. He founded a jam factory before creating the Violet Crumble chocolate bar in 1913, featuring honeycomb toffee enrobed in chocolate. The bar became an instant success and remains a beloved Australian treat over a century later. Hoadley's commitment to quality ingredients and novel flavors helped establish his products in the competitive confectionery market. His entrepreneurial vision and sweet creations continue to delight generations of candy lovers.

Hans Niels Andersen was a visionary Danish entrepreneur and shipping magnate who co-founded the East Asiatic Company in 1897. Under his leadership, the company launched a modern fleet of steamships to expand trade routes between Europe and Asia. He diversified the company's interests into engineering, manufacturing, and cultural exchanges, fostering connections across continents. Andersen's emphasis on innovation and efficient management made EAC one of the leading trading firms of its era. His lasting impact on global shipping shaped Denmark's maritime industry for decades.

Hugh D. McIntosh was born in 1876 in Melbourne, Australia, and became a prominent businessman and showman. He managed circuses, theaters, and sporting events, earning a reputation for grand entertainment ventures. McIntosh financed the construction of Sydney’s Royal Agricultural Hall and promoted professional rugby league. He innovated marketing strategies, bringing international acts to Australian audiences. His entrepreneurial spirit helped shape early 20th-century entertainment and sports industries in Australia. Despite financial ups and downs, he remained a key figure in the country’s cultural life. McIntosh died in 1942, remembered for his lasting impact on Australian business and entertainment.

Glen P. Robinson founded Scientific Atlanta in 1951 and turned it into a leading provider of satellite and cable television equipment. Under his leadership, the company pioneered advances in satellite broadcast technology that transformed global communications. Robinson held multiple patents in microwave and satellite engineering and was known for his entrepreneurial vision. He also served on several academic and industry boards, promoting innovation in telecommunications. Until his death in 2013, he remained an influential figure in the engineering and business communities.

Michel Bélanger (1929–1997) was a prominent Canadian banker and business executive. Over his career, he held key roles in major financial institutions and guided strategic growth initiatives. Bélanger was known for his innovative approach to banking services and commitment to corporate social responsibility. He worked to modernize financial operations and expand access to banking across Canadian communities. His leadership helped shape the development of Canada's contemporary banking industry.

Arnold Palmer (1929–2016) was an American professional golfer whose charismatic style and competitive spirit earned him the nickname 'The King'. He won numerous championships on the PGA Tour, including seven major titles, and became one of golf's most celebrated figures. Palmer also built a successful business empire, launching golf course design, licensing ventures, and a beverage brand. His approachable persona helped bring golf to a broader audience, igniting interest in the sport across generations. Palmer's impact extends beyond his victories, as he inspired countless players and shaped modern golf culture.

Born John Sinclair in 1953, he is the 3rd Earl of Caithness and styled Lord Thurso in political life. Elected MP for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross in 2001, he represented the Liberal Democrats until 2015. He served as Minister of State for Scotland from 2007 to 2008 under Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Thurso has held leadership roles in the private sector, including board positions at major financial institutions. In 2017, he was appointed chairman of VisitScotland, promoting tourism and cultural heritage nationwide. Combining peerage and politics, he remains a prominent figure in both business and public service.

Jack Ma is a Chinese business magnate, investor, and philanthropist best known as the co-founder and former executive chairman of Alibaba Group. Launched in 1999, Alibaba grew into one of the world's largest e-commerce companies, transforming retail and technology in China. Under Ma's leadership, the company expanded into cloud computing, digital payments, and entertainment. Known for his charismatic style and vision, Ma became an iconic figure in global business, frequently advocating for small businesses and internet innovation. Following his retirement from Alibaba, he has focused on philanthropic efforts in education, entrepreneurship, and environmental conservation. Ma's story from English teacher to tech billionaire has inspired entrepreneurs worldwide.