Josh Hart
Josh Hart is a native of Northern Michigan, hailing from Gaylord. He earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree from The University of Olivet, where he excelled on the football field and served as the president of the nationally renowned Insurance and Risk Management program. With a strong foundation in academia and sports, Josh embarked on a 15-year journey within the Insurance Industry, taking on diverse leadership roles around the country. In 2019, he made the decision to move to Traverse City and founded his present ventures, Riley’s Candles, and the "Riley Foundation," both named in honor of his beloved 14-year-old Beagle, Riley. The overarching mission of these social impact organizations is to raise funds for dogs in dire need of life-saving surgeries, who might otherwise face euthanasia due to the financial constraints of their owners.
Josh joined the Economic Club of Traverse City board in 2024 as a new member. Josh would recommend board or Club volunteer experience since it allows him to share his knowledge, curiosity, and expertise of learning and teaching entrepreneurship, nurturing startups, mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and contributing to the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Josh is deeply intertwined with the community. He is an active member of the Rotary Club of Traverse Bay Sunrise, contributes to the Office of Possibilities, supports 20Fathoms, TC NewTech, Commonplace, and serves as a Traverse Connect Ambassador. He is also engaged with the Michigan Aerospace Manufacturing Association and various other national business organizations