Chris Best
Canadian entrepreneur and software engineer. Co-founder and CEO of Substack, the subscription publishing platform launched in 2017. Previously co-founded Kik Interactive.
Chris Best's Bio
Chris Best is a Canadian entrepreneur and software engineer best known as the co-founder and chief executive officer of Substack, the subscription-based publishing platform he launched in 2017.
Based in San Francisco, Best previously co-founded Kik Interactive, where he served as co-founder and chief technology officer. At Kik, he helped build a mobile messaging platform that attracted millions of users before transitioning to the media space.
At Substack, he has led the company through significant growth, including a $100 million funding round, while championing a model that lets independent writers earn directly from their audiences. Best has been a vocal advocate for creator ownership and has discussed Substack's approach to content moderation, free speech, and the future of independent media in numerous interviews and public appearances.
Career Timeline
2010 — Co-founded Kik Messenger
Co-founded Kik Messenger, a mobile messaging app that grew to millions of users.
2017 — Co-founded Substack
Co-founded Substack with Hamish McKenzie and Jairaj Sethi, launching a subscription publishing platform for independent writers.
2023 — CEO of Substack
Leads Substack as CEO, overseeing growth past 1 million paid subscriptions and expansion into notes, chat, and advertising.
