Biography

Entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist are three words that do a pretty good job of describing Steve Streit's career, but they don't cover everything. Mr. Streit, most recognized as being the inventor of the prepaid debit card industry, has also been an executive producer on two noteworthy documentaries, one of which was nominated for multiple Emmys.

The first, "Out of Omaha," tells the story of twin African American brothers growing up in Omaha, Nebraska. It's an insightful look at systemic injustice and the effects it has on real people. Often, discussions of systemic racism and institutional injustice are very philosophical; this documentary shines a light on these issues not by preaching about them but rather by showing you the life story of these twin brothers. "Out of Omaha" was also produced by J. Cole, a rapper and activist who released five straight number-one albums while taking a leading role in fighting for justice. "Out of Omaha" premiered in 2018 to favorable reviews from audiences and critics alike. It is available to stream on Starz.

"Wrestle," also released in 2018, takes a look at four high school wrestling teammates attending one of Alabama's notorious failing schools. These four disadvantaged teenagers are facing much more than a long road to a state championship. The hardships they face bring to light some of the most common and heartbreaking obstacles that plague the underprivileged: drugs, crime, fractured families, and mental health struggles all loom over the four teammates. "Wrestle" is a sports movie, yes; but it's also a movie about how people overcome the worst of odds. This movie's engaging and honest look at the lives of these four teenagers resulted in its nomination for the Emmy Award for Outstanding Social Issue Documentary and the Emmy Award for Outstanding Editing: Documentary.

Mr. Streit served as an executive producer on both of these films, providing funding, leadership, and expertise. Steve Streit is known in the banking and financial industries as an innovator and leader, taking the company he founded, Green Dot Corporation, from a table in his bedroom to the New York Stock Exchange. By the end of Steve's tenure as CEO, Green Dot would provide more than 50 million customers with cutting-edge mobile banking services. Before starting Green Dot in 1999, Mr. Streit had a successful career in broadcast radio, helping to establish several music radio formats that are still in use today.

In 2018, Steve Streit established SWS Venture Capital. The firm concentrates on funding new and innovative companies across multiple sectors. Mr. Streit also runs a charity, Patti's Way, which was named after and founded in honor of his mother. Patti's Way partners with charities such as the Foothill Family Foundation in Pasadena, Bresee Youth Center in Los Angeles to give grants to people and families who demonstrate financial need.

Mr. Streit was born in Miami, Florida, and lives in Naples.
- IMDb mini biography by: Steve Streit