About Kipup

Portland-built AI infrastructure for idea-to-launch founders

Born out of PDX Startup Week's 24-hour build challenge, Kipup Labs helps napkin-stage founders validate fast, package a professional plan, and arrive at partners like the Metro Region Innovation Hub ready to act.

Mission

We help founders and SMB operators turn "What If" into "What’s Next" by closing the gap between having an idea and getting the validation, resources, and referrals required to launch.

What We Do

  • Validate your vision in minutes
  • Spin up specialist agents for marketing, finance, and ops
  • Unlock local partners, grants, and lender readiness
Kipup mark

Origin: PDX Startup Week 2025

Kipup was prototyped during the 24-hour build challenge at PDX Startup Week. What began as a scrappy experiment to help founders explain their idea became a fully-fledged AI navigator that now supports Portland-area programs and will expand city by city.

Leadership

The team behind Stella

Founders with deep experience in AI systems, community innovation, and startup execution.

Erik Svilich

Chief Executive Officer & Architect

Serial entrepreneur and business builder from Portland who has shipped AI copilots for SMBs and now leads Kipup's vision.

LinkedIn →

Andrew Becker

Chief Operations & Technology Officer

Engineer-operator designing Stella's specialist agents and ensuring idea-to-launch workflows stay simple and fast.

LinkedIn →

Kristin Wolff

Chief Impact Officer

Workforce researcher and community innovator aligning Kipup with regional programs, partners, and inclusive pathways.

LinkedIn →