Colin Kaepernick Launches Lumi AI Platform for Creators

Former NFL quarterback and civil rights activist Colin Kaepernick has launched a new AI storytelling platform, Lumi, aimed at helping creators own and tell their stories. The platform uses generative AI to assist storytellers in developing and distributing their narratives.

A New Venture for Kaepernick

Kaepernick, known for his activism and his time with the San Francisco 49ers, has spent the past decade building a media company, Kaepernick Media, and serving on Medium’s board since 2020. These experiences exposed him to issues such as gatekeeping and production costs in the media industry, which Lumi aims to address.

Lumi’s Innovative Approach

Lumi, which has emerged from stealth with $4 million in seed funding led by Seven Seven Six, offers an AI subscription, a distribution platform, and a revenue share plan. The platform allows creators to generate and own their content, providing a new level of versatility and creativity. Initially focused on comic book illustrators, particularly in the Japanese manga style, Lumi plans to expand into video and other media.

Empowering Storytellers

Creators can use Lumi to generate AI images of their characters, plan their story structure, and format the final product into a graphic novel. The platform also offers physical publishing and merchandising services, making it a one-stop shop for creators. Subscription tiers range from $20 to $75 per month, with higher tiers unlocking advanced features.

Addressing Media Industry Challenges

Kaepernick’s own experiences with the media have informed his approach to Lumi. He faced significant public and media scrutiny during his NFL career, particularly for his protests against civil injustices. With Lumi, he aims to provide creators with the tools to control their narratives and reduce the influence of entrenched media gatekeepers.

Looking Ahead

Lumi aims to uplift voices that are often underrepresented, using AI to create a better path forward for storytellers. Kaepernick acknowledges the biases inherent in current AI models but hopes to build a platform that addresses these issues and serves creators effectively.

Kaepernick’s Vision

Despite the politically charged climate in Silicon Valley, Kaepernick remains focused on Lumi’s mission. He believes that by serving creators well, Lumi will succeed and help shape a new era of storytelling.