About
Matt Higgins is an American businessman who is known for his entrepreneurial spirit and his appearances on television, sharing guidance about starting and growing businesses. He co-founded RSE Ventures, a private investment firm that supports ventures in sports, entertainment, and technology. He has also held executive positions with major sports teams, most notably serving as Vice Chairman of the Miami Dolphins. Beyond boardrooms and business meetings, he inspires others with his story of perseverance and willingness to make bold decisions.
Higgins was born and raised in Queens, New York. Growing up, he learned the value of hard work through his own family’s struggles. This experience shaped his view of what it takes to succeed in life and business. Early on, he discovered that adversity can provide the best lessons, and he has used that understanding to fuel his ambitions. His path to becoming a successful investor and executive is a story of continually taking risks, staying humble, and looking for ways to uplift others.
In recent years, Higgins has appeared as a guest investor on the TV show “Shark Tank,” offering both financial support and practical advice to entrepreneurs who are eager to expand their ventures. His direct, heartfelt approach resonates with many viewers and business founders alike. He often emphasizes the importance of dedication, flexibility, and clear communication when running any venture. For him, it’s not just about investing money—it’s also about giving innovators the tools and insights they need to thrive.
Before Fame
Long before his days as a top executive, Matt Higgins faced financial challenges in his youth. Determined to help his family, he worked part-time jobs from a young age. He also made the decision to leave high school early, later pursuing his education in a non-traditional way. He eventually attended Queens College and Fordham Law School, showing that there is more than one route to achieving success.
His experiences working in government laid the groundwork for his future ventures. Early in his career, he served in the press office for New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, refining his skills in communication and public relations. This role gave him firsthand knowledge of navigating complex bureaucracies while managing high-pressure situations. Over time, he moved into the world of sports and business, applying everything he learned to larger and more ambitious projects.
By remaining open to every learning opportunity, Higgins turned obstacles into stepping stones. His background shaped his practical outlook on business, reminding him that every challenge can yield new skills. This approach helped him transition smoothly when he later took executive roles in professional sports organizations like the New York Jets, eventually ending up with the Miami Dolphins.
Trivia
- Investment Focus: At RSE Ventures, Higgins looks for partnerships where founders demonstrate passion and have a long-term vision. He believes successful companies usually have leaders who are adaptable and resilient.
- Public Speaker: Higgins shares his business insights at conferences and events, explaining how personal stories can fuel innovation and success.
- Early Challenges: He has openly discussed the difficulties he faced in his teenage years, emphasizing that setbacks can be catalysts for personal growth.
- Media Presence: Outside of “Shark Tank,” he has been featured on various podcasts, radio programs, and television segments, discussing entrepreneurship and the evolving business landscape.
- Philanthropic Interests: Higgins often supports causes related to education and entrepreneurship, and he encourages aspiring business leaders to pay it forward by offering mentorship or resources to others.
Family Life
Matt Higgins’s upbringing in Queens played a big part in shaping his character. Raised in a modest household, he saw how personal sacrifices can strengthen family bonds. Even though he keeps details of his personal life relatively private, he credits his family for teaching him the importance of loyalty, resilience, and empathy. These values guide him in his business ventures, where he strives to uplift teams and colleagues.
His mother had a huge impact on his perspective, encouraging him to keep learning no matter the circumstances. By working multiple jobs in his youth, he aimed to lessen the financial stress on his household. This sense of responsibility informs his approach to business leadership: he prioritizes staying grounded and never forgetting where he came from. He often shares that supportive relationships are some of the strongest motivators a person can have in their pursuit of success.
Associated With
In his journey as an investor and executive, Higgins has collaborated with numerous well-known figures. One of his key professional alliances has been with Stephen M. Ross, the principal owner of the Miami Dolphins. Together, they developed RSE Ventures, investing in a range of businesses that include hospitality, sports, and technology startups. Higgins believes that having partners who share your vision and values is vital for any major endeavor.
His role on “Shark Tank” also put him side by side with well-known investors such as Mark Cuban, Barbara Corcoran, Kevin O’Leary, and Daymond John. Through the show, Higgins helps entrepreneurs refine their pitches, scale their businesses, and think strategically about the long run. While each “Shark” brings a unique set of skills and viewpoints, Higgins’s experience in sports management and brand-building sets him apart. He uses real-world anecdotes to help founders understand both the triumphs and pitfalls of running a company.
Higgins is often recognized as a champion of perseverance who encourages individuals to stay focused on their goals. He strongly advocates believing in one’s capabilities, especially when the odds look impossible. By sharing his own story, he proves that determination, strategic thinking, and empathy can go a long way. Whether working alongside NFL team owners, celebrity investors, or first-time founders, he brings enthusiasm and deep insight to every conversation.
