Neil Bergquist, CEO and co-founder of Coinme, has significantly transformed the cryptocurrency landscape by making digital currencies more accessible to the general public. His journey into the fintech sector began with a deep-seated interest in leveraging technology to solve complex financial problems.
Bergquist’s professional career began with notable roles in innovation management. He served as the Managing Director at SURF Incubator in Seattle, a prominent tech hub that supported hundreds of startups. His leadership at SURF Incubator was instrumental in nurturing new ventures and fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem in the Pacific Northwest.
In 2014, recognizing the lack of secure and user-friendly platforms for cryptocurrency transactions, Bergquist co-founded Coinme. The company introduced one of the first licensed bitcoin ATMs in the United States, a groundbreaking initiative that simplified the process of buying bitcoin with cash. This innovative approach demystified cryptocurrency for many users and addressed critical trust and accessibility issues in the market.
Under Bergquist's leadership, Coinme rapidly expanded its services. The company formed a strategic partnership with Coinstar, integrating cryptocurrency purchasing capabilities into thousands of kiosks nationwide. This move significantly increased the public’s access to digital currencies, aligning with Bergquist’s vision of financial inclusion through technological advancement. Coinme's expansion across tens of thousands of locations in the U.S. highlights Bergquist’s ability to scale operations while maintaining a focus on user experience and regulatory compliance.
Bergquist has been a vocal advocate for integrating cryptocurrencies into everyday financial activities. He emphasizes the importance of regulatory adherence and customer-centric innovations in building a trusted platform. Coinme's business model prioritizes ease of use, security, and cost-effectiveness, making it a leader in the U.S. cryptocurrency exchange market.
Bergquist was honored as the Young Entrepreneur of the Year by the Washington State Small Business Administration, reflecting his impact on the fintech industry. His work at Coinme continues to influence the sector, setting standards for regulatory compliance and user trust.
