31. Brian Armstrong

Co-founder and CEO, Coinbase

It was a hot year for Bitcoin, and for startups dealing with them.

Brian Armstrong and his Bitcoin startup, Coinbase, were the recipients of high-profile VC Fred Wilson's first investment in nearly two years. In December, Coinbase raised a $25 million Series B round from Andreessen Horowitz and added partner Chris Dixon to its board.

Just last month, popular budgeting app Mint added Bitcoin support with Coinbase.