Huan Li

Experience

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  Sohu.com

  Aug 1999 - Oct 2000

  ChinaRen Engineer

  ChinaRen.com, an early pioneer in social networking in China, connected millions and shaped the country's social media evolution, acquired by SoHu.com for $13M in 2001.As a founding engineer at ChinaRen, I was pivotal in building the infrastructure for one of China's earliest social networking platforms, which significantly influenced the social media landscape.I specialize in architecting and refining core systems for optimal performance and reliability. Key contributions include Server Setup, Log Analysis, Mail System, Performance Tuning, Network Security, and Database Administration. My work ensured scalability, security, and high availability, supporting the platform’s rapid growth. Show less

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  AKA Tech LLC

  Jun 2001 - Oct 2005

  Founder & CEO

  AKA Tech is a leading internet technology company based in Beijing, known for developing innovative software solutions including an open-source email system, a specialized VPN, a vibrant online community platform, an anti-spamming gateway, and a secure firewall to revolutionize online information and technology.As the founder of AKA Tech, I have had the privilege of steering the development of groundbreaking software and services tailored to the evolving needs of the internet industry. Under my leadership, AKA Technology Ltd. has introduced an array of innovative solutions, including wMail, an open-source email system; a specialized VPN designed for academic institutions; wForum BBS, a vibrant online community platform; an email anti-spamming gateway; and a highly secure firewall, which we provide on an OEM basis to major corporations.My focus has been on fostering an innovation environment at AKA Tech, driving our mission to revolutionize online information and technology. Our dedication to excellence has positioned us as leaders in the field, committed to setting new benchmarks and delivering value to our users and the wider internet community. Show less

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  Youku Tudou Inc

  Nov 2005 - Jun 2007

  Chief Scientist

  YouKu.com was envisioned as the Chinese version of a YouTube clone, listed at NYSE as YOKU in 2010.As a crucial founding team member and Chief Scientist at YouKu.com, I played a pivotal role in defining the technological landscape and product strategy. Tasked with the creation and leadership of the Technology & Product department, I spearheaded the recruitment of a top-tier team and developed the foundational technology and architecture that established YouKu as a leader in the Internet video sector.My efforts were central to transitioning the platform towards a model that emphasized high-quality, professionally produced videos, facilitating significant growth and attracting over $110 million in private equity funding. My work at YouKu is a testament to a profound commitment to innovation, leadership in technology development, and a significant influence on the video streaming industry in China. Show less

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  JiWai.de

  Jul 2007 - Dec 2011

  Founder & CEO

  JiWai.com was envisioned as the Chinese version of a Twitter clone and a beacon of innovation and connectivity.Our mission was to democratize information sharing, enabling users to connect seamlessly through real-time SMS, instant messaging, and social media, breaking barriers and fostering open collaboration.I founded JiWai.com in 2007, a pioneering microblogging service that set the stage for a revolution in digital communication in China. As the founder, I was driven by a passion for innovation and a belief in the power of open communication.Leading a team of visionaries, we created a space where thoughts could traverse freely, allowing every voice to be heard across distances, anytime, anywhere. Our journey through challenges and achievements underscored our commitment to creating a vibrant community where creativity, resilience, and meaningful connections flourished. JiWai.com stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and the transformative power of microblogging in connecting hearts and minds. Show less

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  PreAngel

  Aug 2012 - Jul 2020

  Angel Investor

  PreAngel empowers startups' journey with serial entrepreneurs' expertise and strategic mentorship through our Professional Co-founder Service.As a Partner at PreAngel, I specialize in transforming AI dreams into reality with our Professional Co-founder Service. My background as a serial entrepreneur and AI/ML expert uniquely positions me to offer strategic mentorship and technological insights to early-stage startups. With a portfolio of over 100 investments focused on mobile apps and AI applications, I deeply understand the startup ecosystem and the transformative power of AI.Looking forward, my commitment is to AI exclusively, aiming to champion startups leveraging artificial intelligence to innovate and disrupt industries. At PreAngel, we're dedicated to empowering AI-driven ventures, ensuring founders have the expert guidance and support needed to succeed in a technology-driven future. Show less

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  Plug and Play Tech Center

  Mar 2015 - now

  Venture Partner

  Plug and Play is a venture capital firm and open innovation platform that connects the largest corporations to the world's best startups through industry-focused accelerator programs in Silicon Valley and beyond.I have been at the forefront of technological innovation for years as a Venture Partner at Plug and Play Tech Center, a global leader in accelerating startups and connecting them with major corporations and investors. Our mission is to leverage technology to create impactful solutions, and our footprint spans 18+ countries and includes 30+ unicorn companies.In my role, I specialize in evaluating American and Chinese tech startups, focusing on their technological viability, intellectual property, and potential for investment or acquisition. My work involves deep technical analysis, strategic advisory, and facilitating cross-border integration between emerging technologies and established systems. Bridging the gap between technology and business, I have helped shape the growth trajectories of numerous startups, advising on technical strategies and fostering international partnerships.At Plug and Play, innovation is our language, and making a global impact is our goal. I am proud to contribute to a world where technology not only thrives but also drives positive change. Show less

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  Juzi Bot

  Mar 2016 - now

  Board Member

  Juzi.BOT(YC W19), a leading SCRM SaaS provider and top Wechaty RPA partner, leverages AI and large language models to integrate WeChat and WhatsApp, optimizing customer engagement and marketing for global enterprises.Since its founding in 2017, Juzi.BOT has raised over $6 million in VC funding from investment institutions, including Plug and Play, PreAngel, Y Combinator, TSVC, and more. The Juzi.BOT team is constantly innovating in the fields of RPA, AI chatting, and private domain operation services, improving the daily conversation service experience of 10 million+ people. Show less

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  Chatie.IO

  Apr 2016 - now

  Chatbot Architect

  CHATIE: Code Human-mimicking Agents Through Intuitive English.Imagine speaking your ideas into existence—Chatie.IO makes that possible for chatbots. Using just plain English, you can program, test, and deploy chatbots that work across messaging giants like WhatsApp and WeChat. No coding jargon, no steep learning curve. Whether you're an entrepreneur aiming to enhance customer engagement, or a teacher looking to automate administrative tasks, Chatie.IO empowers you to create sophisticated chatbots as easily as drafting an email. Join us in revolutionizing chatbot development, making it accessible to everyone, everywhere!"The hottest new programming language is English" — Andrej Karpathy, Founding Member of OpenAI, Jan 24, 2023 Show less