FT Start-Up Stories Uncovering the secrets of computing
Aug 13, 2018
In this engaging conversation, Alex Klein, Co-founder of Kano, discusses his mission to make computing approachable for everyone. He shares how a child's request for a Lego-like computer sparked the idea for his innovative kits. Alex reveals the process of turning a pet project into a scalable product through crowdfunding and community engagement. He highlights the importance of user feedback in shaping design and product features. With ambitious goals, he also talks about preserving Kano's unique culture as the company grows and reaches a global audience.
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Childhood Sparked The Product
- Alex describes how showing a Raspberry Pi to his six-year-old cousin Mika sparked the idea for a Lego-like computer kit.
- That child's simple challenge — make it as easy and fun as Lego — became the seed for Kano.
Living Room Assembly Line
- Alex recounts assembling the first 200 kits in a Belsize Park flat and turning the living room into an assembly line.
- That DIY start attracted early momentum and allowed them to hire more people.
Ambition Attracts Misfit Talent
- Positioning your startup as ambitious and mission-driven helps attract talent tired of incremental apps.
- People join movements that promise to reshape how technology fits into life.