November 14

Lawrie Barratt (1927–2012) was an English entrepreneur who founded Barratt Developments in 1958. He grew the firm from a small construction outfit into one of the UK's leading housebuilders. Barratt revolutionized post-war housing with innovative designs and customer-focused approaches. He introduced concepts such as build-to-order partnerships and comprehensive warranties. Under his leadership, Barratt Developments expanded nationwide, leaving a lasting impact on British homeownership. Barratt received industry accolades and served as a role model for modern business practices. His legacy endures in the company's continued prominence.

Peter Norton (born November 14, 1943) is an American software entrepreneur and author best known for founding Peter Norton Computing. He created the Norton Utilities suite, which became a standard toolkit for PC maintenance and repair in the 1980s and 1990s. Norton studied physics and worked as a developer before turning to commercial software publishing. His book Upgrading and Repairing PCs was a best-selling guide for computer enthusiasts and professionals alike. In 1990, he sold his company to Symantec but continued to be a prominent figure in the software industry and philanthropy.

Roland Duchâtelet (born November 14, 1946) is a Belgian entrepreneur and former politician. He founded several successful technology firms, focusing on microelectronics and semiconductor industries. Duchâtelet expanded his business portfolio into real estate, healthcare, and professional football club ownership. From 2009 to 2014, he served as a senator for the Open Flemish Liberals and Democrats. During his political tenure, he advocated for economic innovation and digital policy reforms. He became known internationally for his investments in European football teams, including Standard Liège. Duchâtelet's strategic vision merged business acumen with a passion for sports and civic engagement. He remains an influential figure in European business circles and sports management.

Gary Vaynerchuk is a Russian-American entrepreneur and public speaker who transformed his family’s wine business into a digital commerce powerhouse. He pioneered online wine retail with Wine Library, growing revenue from $3 million to $60 million in five years. Recognizing the potential of social media, Vaynerchuk launched Wine Library TV, becoming an early influencer in the space. He co-founded VaynerMedia, a full-service digital agency that works with Fortune 500 companies. As an author, he has written bestselling books like Crush It! and Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook, offering insights on marketing and branding. Vaynerchuk is also a venture capitalist, investing in startups such as Twitter, Uber, and Facebook before their IPOs. Known for his motivational speaking style, he shares advice on entrepreneurship, personal branding, and hustle culture. Vaynerchuk’s dynamic presence across podcasts, YouTube, and live events continues to inspire millions.

Brock Pierce was born in 1980 in the United States and began his career as a child actor, appearing in films such as The Mighty Ducks and First Kid. In his early twenties, he co-founded Digital Entertainment Network, becoming an early internet entrepreneur. Pierce later became a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency world, co-founding Blockchain Capital and launching investments in Bitcoin and Ethereum. He has served on the board of the Bitcoin Foundation and advocated for digital asset innovation. Pierce also ran as an independent candidate in the 2020 U.S. presidential election, focusing on technology policy. His journey from Hollywood to Silicon Valley exemplifies his entrepreneurial spirit and forward-thinking vision.