Suggestions
Christopher Gray
CEO
Christopher Gray is the founder and CEO of Scholly, a mobile and web application designed to assist students in finding scholarships for college. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Gray faced significant challenges growing up, including poverty and periods of homelessness. His determination led him to secure over $1.3 million in scholarships, which enabled him to attend Drexel University, where he studied finance and entrepreneurship.16
Career and Scholly
Gray founded Scholly in 2015 while still a student at Drexel University. The app was inspired by his own experiences navigating the complex scholarship landscape, aiming to simplify the process for others. Scholly quickly gained traction, particularly after Gray appeared on ABC's Shark Tank, where he secured a $40,000 investment from investors Daymond John and Lori Greiner. This appearance not only elevated the profile of Scholly but also sparked significant interest, leading to thousands of users accessing the platform shortly after the episode aired.37
Since its inception, Scholly has helped over 2 million subscribers find more than $100 million in scholarships.14 In 2023, Gray's company was acquired by Sallie Mae, a leading education and student solutions company, marking a significant milestone in its growth.23 Following this acquisition, Scholly transitioned to a free model for users, broadening its accessibility.7
Community Impact and Future Endeavors
Beyond Scholly, Gray is actively involved in initiatives aimed at supporting young professionals as they transition from college to careers. He co-founded Path, an AI-powered tool that assists with resume writing, career coaching, and personal development.34 Gray's work has earned him recognition as one of Forbes' 30 Under 30 in social entrepreneurship and accolades from notable figures such as Oprah Winfrey.7
Gray's journey reflects his commitment to social entrepreneurship and his desire to empower students from underprivileged backgrounds. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those from marginalized communities.56



