TOPSTEP

Topstep's story begins on the floor of the Chicago Board of Trade, where founder Michael Patak started his career in the Dow Jones pit. Like many aspiring traders, Michael faced the harsh reality of the markets early on, blowing out three brokerage accounts and losing $90,000 before he found his footing. This painful but pivotal experience taught him that long-term success in trading isn't just about strategy—it's about discipline, risk management, and the ability to learn without the fear of financial ruin.

Determined to create a safer path for others, Michael founded Topstep (originally TopstepTrader) in 2012. His vision was to professionalize retail trading by providing a simulated environment where traders could prove their skills without risking their own capital. The concept was simple but revolutionary: evaluate traders based on performance and discipline, and if they pass, fund them with the company's capital. Today, Topstep has grown from a small startup into a leading fintech firm, empowering thousands of traders worldwide to earn funding and professionalize their passion for the markets.