When you bite into the fiery, flavorful chicken at Dave’s Hot Chicken, you might wonder: who owns Dave’s Hot Chicken? This Nashville-style hot chicken chain has exploded in popularity, attracting celebrity investors and a loyal fanbase across the U.S. and beyond.

In this article, we’ll explore the founders, investors, and notable ownership details behind Dave’s Hot Chicken, revealing how it became a cultural sensation.

Who Founded Dave’s Hot Chicken?

Dave’s Hot Chicken was founded in 2017 by four friends from Los Angeles:

1. Dave Kopushyan

2. Armen Amirian

3. David Mortz

4. Alek Aleksanyan

These friends started by selling hot chicken from a small stand in East Hollywood. Their goal was to bring the bold flavors of Nashville-style chicken to a wider audience.

• Dave Kopushyan is considered the “face” of the brand, hence the name.

• The founders focused on quality, spicy flavors, and a casual dining experience that quickly resonated with fans.

Celebrity Investors: Drake and Others

In 2020, Dave’s Hot Chicken attracted high-profile investors, most notably the rapper Drake, who became a minority investor.

• Drake’s involvement boosted the brand’s visibility, helping it expand into major cities across the U.S.

• Other investors and venture capital firms have also contributed to funding the chain’s rapid growth.

The combination of celebrity backing and smart business strategies has helped Dave’s Hot Chicken grow from a local favorite to a national sensation.

Ownership Structure Today

Today, Dave’s Hot Chicken operates as a privately held company:

• Founders: Still involved in daily operations and brand decisions.

• Celebrity Investors: Drake and other high-profile backers hold minority stakes.

• Venture Capital: External investors support expansion and franchise development.

While they don’t publicly disclose exact percentages, the founders maintain significant control over brand direction and menu innovation.

How the Ownership Influences the Brand

1. Innovation: The founders’ hands-on approach ensures menu items stay authentic and bold.

2. Expansion: Celebrity and investor support allow rapid franchising in new cities.

3. Marketing: Drake’s involvement adds cultural cachet, attracting media attention and new customers.

The combination of founder oversight and investor support ensures Dave’s Hot Chicken balances quality with growth.

FAQs About Dave’s Hot Chicken Ownership

Q1: Who owns Dave’s Hot Chicken?
The founders of the chain are Dave Kopushyan, Armen Amirian, David Mortz, and Alek Aleksanyan. They are the primary owners, with minority stakes held by celebrity investors like Drake.

Q2: Is Drake the owner of Dave’s Hot Chicken?
No, Drake is a minority investor. He does not own the majority of the company.

Q3: Who is the founder of Dave’s Hot Chicken?
Dave Kopushyan is the namesake and one of the four founders of the brand.

Q4: Is Dave’s Hot Chicken a publicly traded company?
No, it is privately held. The founders, celebrity investors, and venture capital backers share ownership.

Q5: How has celebrity investment affected the brand?
Celebrity backing has increased brand visibility, media coverage, and expansion opportunities. It has also helped attract new franchisees.

Conclusion: The People Behind Dave’s Hot Chicken

Dave’s Hot Chicken is more than just spicy fried chicken; it’s the result of entrepreneurial vision, culinary expertise, and strategic investment. Founded by four friends, supported by investors like Drake, and managed with a focus on quality, the brand continues to grow nationwide.