Ex-Google engineers emerge from stealth with $5M to build AI learning engine for kids

• January 23, 2026

Traditional education systems lag behind contemporary learning needs. Curricula evolve slowly, textbook updates take years, and many tools rely on rigid lessons.

Children exploring AI often encounter unsuitable content or lengthy explanations that dampen their natural curiosity, leading to increased screen time with diminishing educational returns. A Zurich-based company aims to bridge this gap.

Sparkli, founded by ex-Google engineers, recently revealed its operations after securing $5 million in pre-seed financing from Founderful and additional investors. Their mission: create the first multimodal AI learning platform tailored for children aged 5-12.

The platform transforms inquiries into interactive explorations. Currently in pilot testing with a major international school network encompassing 100+ institutions and 100,000+ students, Sparkli activates learning through engagement.

Addressing Core Educational Challenges

Founded by Mynseok Kang, Lax Poojary, and Lucie Marchand, Sparkli confronts what it terms the ‘Agency and Curiosity Gap’ through three transformations:

• Dynamic Learning: Replaces fixed curricula with real-time topic exploration
• Active Engagement: Swaps text-heavy AI responses with multimodal experiences using visuals, audio, and interactive elements
• Skill Development: Prioritizes creative thinking and problem-solving over rote memorization

“We’re empowering the next generation through exploration,” stated CEO Lax Poojary. “When children drive their learning through questions and choices, screen time becomes curiosity fuel rather than a passive activity.”

For instance, a query about Martian city-building triggers a customized journey where children experiment with physics concepts, run environmental simulations, design infrastructure, and evaluate trade-offs – all while developing critical thinking skills.

Early trials show promising results: students have simulated entrepreneurial ventures, debated resource allocation, and pursued self-directed science projects using the platform. Parents report children enthusiastically discussing their discoveries after interactive sessions.

Future Developments

The new capital will accelerate development of Sparkli’s generative learning engine, with a private beta planned for January 2026.

“This represents a paradigm shift in educational interaction,” commented Lukas Weder, Partner at Founderful. “The team combines technical excellence with pedagogical insight to address an urgent need. Their early adoption by major institutions confirms demand for tools that nurture active learning.”