**Nike**
- Year of Origin: 1964 (originally founded as Blue Ribbon Sports)
- Stock Symbol: NKE (NYSE)
Nike, Inc. was founded in 1964 by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight as Blue Ribbon Sports. They initially sold Japanese running shoes. In 1971, the name "Nike" was adopted, inspired by the Greek goddess of victory, and the iconic Swoosh logo was created by Carolyn Davidson. The company became a major player in athletic footwear and apparel, releasing cult classics like the Air Force 1, Air Jordan, and Air Max lines. Over the years, Nike has innovated with new technologies, such as Air cushioning and Flyknit, while also investing in marketing and athlete endorsements, becoming a global leader in sportswear. Today, Nike is synonymous with performance, style, and culture, influencing not just sports but fashion and lifestyle worldwide.