Trenton Makes...
Trenton Makes...
Joel Griffith is a public servant, technology executive, entrepreneur, and community leader from Trenton, New Jersey.
After years working across government and the private sector, Joel returned home with a clear focus: helping Trenton grow stronger, safer, and more economically vibrant.
His career has given him firsthand experience with how cities manage budgets, partner with the private sector, and deliver results, and he believes Trenton deserves leadership with that same practical know-how.
Joel is a husband, father, and community-minded leader who believes Trenton’s future depends on leadership that listens, shows up, and delivers results.
He believes real leadership means being visible in the community, understanding people’s concerns firsthand, and taking action to solve problems.
Professionally, Joel brings experience across technology, public service, and economic development.
He spent more than a decade working in Big Tech at companies including LinkedIn, Snapchat, Amazon, and TikTok, partnering with Fortune 500 companies on growth, digital strategy, and complex business challenges.
Earlier in his career, Joel worked in public service at the federal and local levels. In Washington, D.C., he served U.S. Senator Roland Burris and later Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer, where he supported legislative operations, constituent services, and policy work—experience that shaped his understanding of how government can function effectively for communities.
In New Jersey, Joel worked for Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman, served as Digital Director for Eric Jackson’s campaign for Mayor of Trenton, and later became Campaign Manager for Trenton City Councilman Duncan Harrison. These roles kept him closely connected to Trenton’s neighborhoods and gave him a practical understanding of the issues residents raise every day.
Joel also served at the New York City Department of Small Business Services in the Neighborhood Development Division under Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
As a Business Improvement Manager, he worked directly with Business Improvement Districts across New York City, supporting public-private partnerships focused on strengthening neighborhood commercial corridors.
His work included monitoring operating budgets, reviewing financial reports, ensuring compliance with city funding requirements, and coordinating with non-profit and business leaders to make sure public dollars were being used effectively.
In addition to his public service work, Joel is an entrepreneur and co-founder of Bot-It, an AI-driven automation platform designed to simplify online tasks.
In 2023, Joel appeared on Shark Tank, where he received an investment offer from Mark Cuban and Michael Rubin.
Since returning to Trenton, Joel has remained deeply engaged in the community—modernizing the Trenton Municipal Democratic Committee’s digital presence, organizing volunteer canvassing efforts, and working with neighborhood groups across the city.
Joel is a graduate of Morehouse College with a degree in political science. He is the son of Rev. Wayne Griffith, former pastor of The Lighthouse in Trenton, and Joanne Griffith.
He and his wife, Jasmine, are raising their daughter, Ella, in Trenton.
Everything Joel does—as a leader, neighbor, and father—is rooted in his commitment to building a city where Trenton families can thrive.