Josh Hart is a native of Northern Michigan, hailing from Gaylord, MI. 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 naƟonally renowned Insurance and Risk Management program. With a strong foundaƟon 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 return to Northern MI and  seƩle in Traverse City, where he is working to establish deep roots in the community.  

As the world grappled with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Josh reevaluated his career  path and decided to transition from the insurance sector to pursue his entrepreneurial ambitions. He  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.  

Beyond his commitment to the welfare of animals, Josh is fervently dedicated to nurturing startups and  contributing to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. He actively engages in investment endeavors, mentoring  aspiring entrepreneurs, and assumes advisory roles on the boards of several early-stage, high-growth  startups. Additionally, he shares his knowledge, curiosity, and expertise through teaching courses on  entrepreneurship and related topics at his Alma Mater, The University of Olivet, and,  more recently, Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City. Josh also offers guidance and leadership  by serving on the Advisory Board for the Insurance and Risk Management Program at his Alma Mater.  

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, co-founder of the Office of Possibilities, supports  20Fathoms, TC NewTech, Grove Community Incubator, and serves as a Traverse Connect Ambassador. He is also  engaged with the Michigan Aerospace Manufacturing Association and various other national business  organizations.