London-based startup Kinnu has successfully raised $6.5 million (£5.1 million) in a funding round led by LocalGlobe and Cavalry Ventures. The company, founded in 2021 by Christopher Kahler and Abraham Müller, with Hanna Celina joining as a co-founder later that year, aims to bring generative AI technology to the field of learning. Kinnu’s app, which has already garnered over 100,000 downloads, utilizes artificial intelligence to generate customized learning content covering various subjects such as science, history, and psychology.
Kahler, CEO of Kinnu, explained that the company adopts a three-pronged approach to content creation using generative AI. The process involves human experts creating course outlines or pathways, which are then fed into the startup’s “Learning Engine.” This engine utilizes large language models similar to those powering ChatGPT to extract key ideas from a subject and generate relevant revision questions in multiple formats, including multiple-choice questions. The information can also be repackaged to prevent learners from recognizing patterns.
Kinnu operates similarly to Wikipedia, where community members can propose amendments to the published pathways. Additionally, the company is currently testing a system to predict mastery of learned materials without the need for users to take exams.
When visual elements are necessary in a course, Kinnu employs generative AI systems like Midjourney to create accompanying text prompts, which are then used to generate relevant images. Furthermore, any content generated through the software can be listened to using audio produced by AI.
The startup received investments from other prominent firms such as Spark Capital and Jigsaw, along with angel investors including Tom Hulme (Head of Europe at Google Ventures), Guy Podjarny (Founder of Snyk), and Rene Rechtman (Co-founder of Moonbug Entertainment). Celina, who brings experience from FutureLearn, Deliveroo, and Google, further enhances the team’s expertise. Kahler and Müller previously co-founded Qriously, a real-time market research company.
Kahler emphasized that Kinnu aims to address the shortcomings of traditional online education platforms, which often rely on a one-size-fits-all approach to learning materials and point-in-time assessments. The company believes there is significant potential for AI-powered learning that focuses on accelerating the pace of human learning itself. With its innovative approach and strong investor backing, Kinnu is poised to make a significant impact in the field of AI-driven education.
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