Rick Schaden is a successful entrepreneur best known for co-founding Consumer Capital Partners (CCP) and playing a key role in the growth of Smashburger, a popular fast-casual burger chain. His career began in the early 1990s when he joined his family’s business, American Medical Response, where he gained valuable experience in operations and management. After the company was sold, Schaden shifted his focus to investing and entrepreneurship, leveraging his expertise to identify and scale promising consumer brands. His strategic vision and hands-on approach helped him build a reputation as a savvy business leader with a knack for spotting market opportunities.

Schaden’s rise to prominence came with the launch of Smashburger in 2007, which quickly became a standout in the competitive burger industry. By focusing on high-quality ingredients and a customer-centric model, he helped grow the chain into a nationally recognized brand. Beyond Smashburger, Schaden co-founded CCP, a private investment firm that supports emerging consumer-focused businesses. His ability to identify trends and execute scalable concepts has cemented his status as a influential figure in the restaurant and investment sectors.

Rick Schaden’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Rick Schaden’s estimated net worth is around $500 million. His wealth stems from successful ventures in the food and hospitality industries, particularly as the co-founder of Smashburger and investor in other restaurant chains. While exact figures fluctuate, his strategic investments and business acumen have solidified his financial standing.

Rick Schaden’s Career

Rick Schaden built his career as a savvy entrepreneur, co-founding Smashburger in 2007 and growing it into a national fast-casual chain. He also played a key role in Consumer Capital Partners, a private equity firm focused on restaurant brands. His expertise lies in scaling businesses, with a knack for identifying and nurturing high-potential food concepts.

Rick Schaden’s Other Ventures

Beyond Smashburger, Schaden has invested in several food and hospitality ventures, including Live Basil Pizza and Tom’s Urban. He’s also involved in real estate development, leveraging his industry knowledge to expand his portfolio. His ventures reflect a focus on innovative, consumer-driven brands with strong growth potential.

Rick Schaden’s Assets

Schaden’s assets include stakes in multiple restaurant chains, commercial real estate holdings, and private equity investments. He owns properties in key markets like Denver, where his businesses are headquartered. His diversified portfolio underscores a long-term strategy to build and maintain wealth across industries.

Rick Schaden’s Annual Income

While exact figures aren’t public, Schaden’s annual income likely ranges in the tens of millions, derived from dividends, investments, and business profits. His income streams are tied to his active and passive ventures, ensuring steady financial growth year over year.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Rick Schaden

What is Rick Schaden’s net worth?

Rick Schaden’s net worth is estimated to be in the hundreds of millions, primarily accumulated through his ventures in the food and restaurant industry, including Smashburger and Consumer Capital Partners.

How did Rick Schaden make his money?

Rick Schaden co-founded Smashburger and Consumer Capital Partners, investing in and growing restaurant brands. His business ventures in fast-casual dining and private equity have been major contributors to his wealth.

Is Rick Schaden still involved with Smashburger?

While Rick Schaden was a key figure in founding Smashburger, he has since moved on to other ventures. His current involvement with the company is minimal or non-existent.

What other businesses has Rick Schaden been associated with?

Aside from Smashburger, Rick Schaden has been involved with Consumer Capital Partners, Live Basil Pizza, and other restaurant and investment ventures.

Has Rick Schaden faced any legal or financial controversies?

There have been no major public controversies or legal issues directly tied to Rick Schaden. His business dealings have largely been successful and low-profile.

What is Rick Schaden’s background before becoming an entrepreneur?

Rick Schaden has a background in finance and investment, which laid the foundation for his later ventures in the restaurant and private equity industries.

Does Rick Schaden invest in other industries outside of food?

While primarily known for his work in the food industry, Rick Schaden’s investments through Consumer Capital Partners may extend into other sectors, though details are not widely publicized.

Is Rick Schaden involved in philanthropy?

There is limited public information about Rick Schaden’s philanthropic activities, suggesting he may keep such contributions private.

How accurate are estimates of Rick Schaden’s net worth?

Net worth estimates for private individuals like Rick Schaden are based on available financial data and business valuations, but exact figures may vary due to undisclosed assets.

What is Rick Schaden’s latest business venture?

As of recent reports, Rick Schaden has been focused on Consumer Capital Partners, though specific new ventures have not been widely publicized.