How 2 high school teens raised a $500K seed round for their API startup (yes, it’s AI)
What is the main function of APIGen's platform?
APIGen's platform builds custom APIs from natural language prompts, allowing users to request specific API functionalities, such as connecting a web front end to a database1. The platform aims to generate code for complex custom APIs with business logic and custom functionalities, targeting web apps and IoT applications1.
Why is Van Landschoot delaying his college education?
Van Landschoot is delaying his college education to focus on being a full-time startup founder. He and his best friend Fitzgerald raised a $500,000 pre-seed investment for their startup APIGen, which works on building custom APIs from natural language prompts.
How did the founders initially connect with potential investors?
The founders initially connected with potential investors by sending cold messages on LinkedIn and reaching out to anyone they thought might respond. They also leveraged their local tech industry connections, such as Fitzgerald's summer internship as a programmer at SoftBank and Van Landschoot's father's work in cybersecurity IT. Additionally, they joined Boulder's active AI Meetup and demoed their product, garnering support from local AI enthusiasts.