Naples, FL, January 23rd, 2024 — Naples resident and Detroit native Rick Inatome, a prominent entrepreneur, investor, and founder of two multibillion tech companies, has been selected by the Royal Order of Francis I to be inducted into knighthood during an upcoming ceremony. The prestigious honor recognizes a select number of individuals in various fields including business, science, and education, for their significant contributions to society.
Inatome, who now serves as Managing Director of Collegio Partners and Chairman of Léman Manhattan Preparatory School, will be honored for his charitable efforts, entrepreneurial endeavors, and social impact. His charitable work extends to organizations in his home state of Michigan, including the Henry Ford Hospital and AAA Michigan (where he served as Chairman). He also was Chairman of Michigan Virtual University.
Inatome is also a Computer Hall of Fame inductee and was named Entrepreneur of the Year by Inc. Magazine in 1990. He is a highly valued mentor to prospective entrepreneurs and business leaders, including the likes of Bill Gates and Steve Jobs upon whose original advisory boards he served.
However, what sets Inatome’s business success stories apart from others is a legacy of creating market-leading entities that integrate social utility with economic value.
“It has been my life’s mission to be able to give back and advise entities who are making an impact in our world, and to be recognized for that work leaves me beyond words,” said Inatome. “I have long believed that education combined with technology is the key to unlocking human potential and am proud to continue that calling.”
The Royal Order of Francis I is a historically distinguished organization which was established by the Royal House of Bourbon two centuries ago and inducts carefully selected individuals each year including Leka, Crown Prince of Albania and Gerald Grosvenor, 6th Duke of Westminster.
The ceremony will honor Inatome alongside other notable men and women including legendary singer Frankie Valli. He is being knighted for his work benefiting children, AIDS, and cancer research, as well as numerous national and local charities over the past five decades.
The event will take place on Sunday, Feb. 11 at 6:30 pm at the Ritz-Carlton Naples, located at 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road. A limited number of tickets remain with proceeds benefitting the charitable work of the Royal Order of Francis I. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://KnighthoodDamehoodGala24.planningpod.com.
Rick Inatome's philanthropic work includes volunteering with Habitat for Humanity