Paul English (entrepreneur)

Paul English (entrepreneur) is an American technology entrepreneur, software engineer, and philanthropist best known as the co-founder of the travel metasearch engine Kayak. A serial entrepreneur, he has also founded or co-founded several other technology companies, including the travel app Lola and the startup foundry Boston Venture Studio. English is equally recognized for his significant philanthropic work, particularly through the Summits Education organization in Haiti.

Early life and education

Paul English was born on February 10, 1963, in Boston, Massachusetts, and grew up in the city's West Roxbury neighborhood. He developed an early interest in computers, teaching himself to program on a TRS-80 and later working at a local RadioShack store. He attended Boston Latin School, a prestigious public exam school, before pursuing higher education. English earned a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science from the University of Massachusetts Boston and later a Master of Science in the same field from the University of Massachusetts Lowell.

Career

English began his professional career as a software engineer at the InterSystems corporation before co-founding his first startup, the IT consulting firm Boston Light Software. His breakthrough came in 2004 when he partnered with Steve Hafner and others to co-found Kayak, serving as its Chief Technology Officer. The company revolutionized online travel search and was successfully acquired by Priceline (now Booking Holdings) in 2012 for approximately $1.8 billion. After Kayak, English launched the travel concierge app Lola in 2015, which was later acquired by Capital One in 2019. He subsequently founded Boston Venture Studio, a venture studio focused on launching new technology companies, and has served as an active angel investor and advisor to numerous startups, including the mental health platform Brain.fm.

Philanthropy

Paul English is a dedicated philanthropist, directing much of his efforts toward improving education in Haiti. In 2009, he co-founded Summits Education, a nonprofit organization that builds and operates a network of high-quality, tuition-free schools in rural Haiti, impacting thousands of students. His philanthropic philosophy extends to direct giving; he is known for personally providing financial assistance to individuals in need, including covering medical bills and educational costs. English also supports various Boston-area charities and has been involved with the Pine Street Inn, a shelter for the homeless.

Personal life

English resides in Boston and is known for his active lifestyle and interest in music, having played in several bands. He maintains a strong connection to the Boston technology and entrepreneurial community, often mentoring young founders. His approach to business and philanthropy is frequently discussed in media outlets like The Boston Globe and Inc. Magazine.

Awards and recognition

Throughout his career, Paul English has received numerous accolades. He was named to the Inc. Magazine "Inc. 500" list for the rapid growth of Kayak and was later featured on the Forbes "Midas List" of top tech investors. In 2012, he received the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year Award in the New England region. His philanthropic work with Summits Education has also been widely recognized, earning commendations from educational and humanitarian organizations.

Category:American technology company founders Category:American philanthropists Category:1963 births Category:Living people