The Founder Initiative
The Founder Initiative
Adam ODonnell
($22.5M raised) Koah Labs Founder, Mike Choi: Internal Squad Operating System, Why End User Experience is the North Star for AI Ad Networks
25 minutes Posted May 20, 2026 at 10:43 pm.
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Mike Choi, Founder of Koah Labs
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikejschoi/
- Koah Labs, founded by Mike Choi, is an AI-native ad network that helps AI applications monetize through sponsored experiences, focusing on tasteful ad integration for end users.
- The company was initially bootstrapped, pivoted to the AI ads idea after strong market pull, and quickly built and launched its first product in early 2025.
- Koah Labs has raised approximately $22–$25.5 million, with a seed round led by Forerunner and a Series A led by Theory Ventures; other investors include South Park Commons and AppLovin co-founder Andrew Karam.
- The company operates with a squad model, prioritizing end user experience as its North Star, while balancing the needs of publishers and advertisers.
- Mike Choi emphasizes the importance of founder well-being, rapid learning, and building trust with investors, which contributed to their successful fundraising and company culture.