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US: Joe Gebbia, co-founder of Airbnb and chairman of its non-profit arm Airbnb.org has stepped down from Airbnb.org’s board amid public scrutiny over political affiliations and refugee support initiatives.
Gebbia, who had spent more than six years in the role, recently aligned himself with US President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), where he has been involved in redesigning federal retirement systems.
He has also publicly reposted statements on social media that are critical of refugee aid, including posts from vice president J.D. Vance.
Airbnb confirmed Gebbia’s exit on Friday evening, stating: “After more than six years as Airbnb.org’s board chair, Joe has decided to step off of the board.” The announcement followed the removal of Airbnb.org from Gebbia’s LinkedIn profile. No further details were provided.
Airbnb.org is a non-profit organisation that provides free and temporary housing for refugees and disaster victims.
Since its inception, it has supported displaced people globally, including victims of the California wildfires and Ukrainian refugees.
Its 2024 financial disclosures show it awarded 22 grants, with more than half supporting refugee-focused initiatives.
Gebbia, a director at Tesla and still a board member at Airbnb, retains significant influence at the parent company alongside co-founders Brian Chesky and Nathan Blecharczyk.
The trio holds a voting majority under a nominating and voting agreement.
Although Airbnb and Airbnb.org operate as separate entities, the company continues to provide logistical and operational support to the non-profit.
Airbnb had already sought to distance itself from Gebbia’s views. In March, it publicly clarified that the organisation does not share his positions on refugee support, a founding tenet of Airbnb.org.
Gebbia’s exit marks a significant leadership change at a time when Airbnb.org continues to play a vital role in global relief efforts.
The organisation has yet to announce a new chair.
