Get to Know: Kyle Wong: Supporting the Entrepreneurial Journey
CEO, StartX
Kyle Wong is passionate about entrepreneurship. As a Stanford engineering undergrad Kyle founded a startup and went through the StartX program in 2012, which he describes as an “amazing experience”. In January 2024 Kyle joined StartX as CEO to give back and help other founders.
StartX is the premier startup community, accelerator, and fellowship program for over 2,500 Stanford founders. StartX offers support without requiring equity by cultivating one of the most talent-dense and engaged founder communities in Silicon Valley.
As the CEO of StartX Kyle spends most of his day working with Stanford alumni, students, and professors to build a better future. He thinks of his job as part non-profit CEO, part conference/community planner, and part start-up helper.
Kyle witnesses the evolution of startups and founders as they navigate their entrepreneurial journeys. He finds it incredibly gratifying to hear the personal stories of how StartX has played a meaningful role in shaping their paths.
We’re excited for you to get to know Kyle Wong, yet another person who makes Stanford Research Park a unique and special place.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
Being at the center of the Stanford entrepreneurship scene comes with a lot of benefits. I love watching startups and founders evolve and hearing stories of how StartX influenced their entrepreneurial journey. Being part of that growth process and knowing that StartX contributes to pivotal moments is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.
I’m passionate about exploring different industries and emerging technologies. Many of our companies originate from Stanford’s top labs, and it’s always inspiring to learn from such accomplished innovators.
Who or what inspires you today?
Watching founders grow—not just in their business acumen, but as leaders —is truly inspiring. Working with founders has definitely made me more optimistic about the future and where the world is heading. Plus, being at Stanford during such an exciting time for AI and deep tech makes it even better!
Working with founders has definitely made me more optimistic about the future and where the world is heading.
Kyle Wong, CEO, StartX
What’s the best or worst advice you’ve ever received?
Entrepreneurship is often a rollercoaster ride with high highs and low lows. One of my mentors advised me that things are never as good or bad as they seem. Remembering this helps me maintain perspective and guide other founders through their good and bad times.
What city do you consider your hometown?
I was born in New York City and attended Brooklyn Tech, one of the largest and most prestigious magnet high schools in the U.S. I met my cofounder on the high school basketball team. I still visit often to see family and connect with the growing tech community, which has expanded significantly over the past decade. Every time I visit, I try to go to my favorite food cart, dumpling shop, and hot pot restaurant.
What is your favorite day-off activity or destination?
A Barry's bootcamp workout or eating at one of the many great restaurants in Palo Alto. My favorite food is pizza, so I’m glad I’ve found a workout that I enjoy as much as pizza!