Food
This global fast-food giant began in 1940 as a small barbecue restaurant run by two brothers in California.
McDonald's
A popular movie highlights the early-stage power struggles of this Harvard-origin social media company.
Nike paid $5,000 fines on behalf of this NBA player's brand for wearing these shoes (which violated uniform rules) during games, creating a ton of buzz.
Jordan
This studio produced Steamboat Willie in the 1900's, leading to the birth of the Mickey Mouse character.
Disney
This company started when a Danish carpenter began making wooden toys before pivoting to the plastic bricks that made it famous.
Lego
This company started when two childhood friends took a five-dollar course from Penn State on how to make ice cream.
Ben & Jerry's
The first post on this platform, titled "Me at the Zoo", shows a UIUC Alum at an elephant exhibit in San Diego.
YouTube
The founder of this company learned blacksmithing to make climbing gear, and ultimately pivoted to high-performance outdoor apparel.
Patagonia
This streaming company started when its founders were charged a $40 late fee for a VHS rental, inspiring a subscription-based rental service.
Netflix
This high-end brand was started in 1963 by a tractor manufacturer who was unhappy with the performance of his Ferrari.
Lamborghini
This founder named his restaurant after his young daughter, Melinda, who couldn’t pronounce the "L" in her name.
Wendy's
This company began in the 19th century producing handmade playing cards before eventually evolving into consoles and digital gaming.
Nintendo
This company began as a harness-making workshop, expanded to making saddles for the Parisian elite, and ultimately a wide range of leather goods.
Hermes
This entertainment giant began in 1939 when the founder created “Timely Publications,” launching heroes like the Human Torch and the Sub-Mariner. They soon underwent a major creative transformation.
Marvel
This company's founder once gambled the company's last $5,000 on a blackjack table in Las Vegas to keep the business afloat.
FedEx