This article is based on conversations with Amit Jain and Raghav Saraf, cofounders of Bengaluru-based AI startup Zamp. It has been edited for clarity and conciseness.

Raghav Saraf: I joined Zamp just four days after completing my last high school exam in 2022. My introduction to Amit Jain occurred at a blockchain hackathon where I developed a payment gateway. The hackathon organizer noticed our shared vision and connected us.

Amit Jain: Prior to founding Zamp, I held the position of managing director at Sequoia India and Southeast Asia in Singapore, and I was the head of Uber's Asia Pacific division. While working in venture capital was rewarding, I felt a strong desire to return to building a company. After spending six to nine months brainstorming ideas, I finally conceptualized the startup that would become Zamp.

Saraf: Initially, my plan was to pursue an undergraduate degree in the U.S. However, after learning about Zamp and the exciting projects in the works, I decided to accept a three-month summer internship. At that time, Zamp had a small team of about five to ten employees, allowing me to take on significant projects that accelerated my learning.

By the end of the summer internship, I realized that my growth was far more substantial than what I would have experienced in college. However, convincing my parents to support my decision to skip college was a challenge.

Jain: I still remember Raghav's father interviewing me in a coffee shop near my office after Raghav decided to join us. His father wanted to ensure I was a suitable mentor for his son, and I was fortunate to pass that informal interview.

Saraf: I have always valued the college experience, not primarily for textbook knowledge, but for the connections and environment. Now, at 21, nearly four years since I chose this path, I find satisfaction in my decision. While my friends are graduating, they often express feeling unprepared for the workforce, despite enjoying their college experience.

Transition to Co-Founder

Jain: Today, Zamp employs around 80 individuals and serves a diverse, global clientele, including leading banks.

Saraf: While we avoid formal titles, I oversee all product-related functions, whereas Amit manages sales, customer relations, and hiring.

Jain: Raghav's promotion to co-founder was a gradual decision. From day one, he exhibited exceptional critical thinking, judgment, and maturity, surpassing many leaders I’ve encountered in my career. His potential as a co-founder was evident over time, and when we announced his new role in 2025, it came as no surprise to anyone who had witnessed his increasing responsibilities.

Saraf: Following the announcement, my team expressed their support, affirming that I had always been a leader to them. My school friends were amazed but thrilled for me. Most importantly, my parents transitioned from uncertainty about my career path to confidence in my capabilities.

Jain: The timing for co-founder designation isn't rigid; it can evolve with the startup's journey. A co-founder plays a critical role in shaping the startup's direction, which has certainly been true for Raghav.

Working Together as Equals

Saraf: My learning curve has been steep; I had to self-teach many skills, from product development to market strategies and team leadership. This active learning process involves recognizing my weaknesses, consuming relevant literature, and self-education.

I've developed close relationships with my colleagues, often spending weekends together. One of my teammates even shares my flat. However, I maintain professionalism at work, ensuring everyone acknowledges my leadership role.

Jain: Our relationship operates on a peer basis, and we complement each other effectively.

Saraf: One of the most surprising aspects of working at Zamp has been the incredible trust and openness within our team, allowing me to make significant decisions. If I were in Amit’s position, I might have hesitated to delegate responsibilities to someone as young as I was when I started.

Source: Business Insider News