Paul Orfalea founded Kinko’s, Inc., in 1970. After identifying a need near the University of California Santa Barbara campus — students needed copies, pens, papers and pencils at affordable rates — he opened the very first Kinko’s shop in Isla Vista. Within ten years, his small idea had grown to over 70 locations throughout the United States and soon became one of the most successful businesses in America. Under his leadership, Kinko’s was named one of the “100 Best Companies to Work for in America,” for three consecutive years, one of the, “Forbes 500 Biggest Companies, “ as well as one of the, “Best Companies for Working Mothers.” Since his retirement in 2000, Paul has devoted his time to philanthropy and public speaking. Because Paul has ADHD and dyslexia, he is especially passionate about raising awareness and empowering children with learning differences to view obstacles as opportunities for growth. Paul is the author of three books, Copy This!: Lessons from a Hyperactive Dyslexic Who Turned a Bright Idea Into One of America’s Best Companies, The Entrepreneurial Investor and Two Billion Dollars in Nickels.

SPEAKING TOPICS

• Lessons from a Hyperactive Dyslexic Who Turned a Bright Idea Into One of America’s Best Companies
• From Obstacle to Opportunity
• Creativity at the Center of Business