Who Created Pi Network? How They Are Changing The Crypto Game
Founded by Stanford PhDs Nicolas Kokkalis and Chengdiao Fan, Pi Network aims to make cryptocurrency accessible through mobile mining. (Photo credit: https://minepi.com/about/)
There is a lot of excitement around the crypto community today as Pi Network prepares to reach a major milestone with the highly anticipated launch of its Open Mainnet. The move will open up this cryptocurrency from a closed system to a fully decentralised blockchain network, potentially paving the way for Pi Coin to be listed on major exchanges such as Binance and OKX.
How Pi Network Took Shape?
Pi Network was founded by Stanford PhDs to create a more accessible cryptocurrency, integrating blockchain with Web3. Launched on March 14, 2019 (Pi Day), it has grown into a global community-driven network with 35+ Core Team members. Pi enables users to mine via mobile phones, ensuring fairness through KYC verification and decentralised governance. With a developer-friendly platform and millions of verified users, Pi Network aims to be a key player in the next tech revolution.
The Evolution of Pi Network
Pi Network has progressed through multiple stages leading to its highly anticipated mainnet launch:
- Beta Phase (2019): Introduced mobile mining to build a strong community.
- Testnet Phase (2020): Enabled blockchain developers to test system performance.
- Enclosed Mainnet (2021 – Present): Focused on KYC verification and network security with restricted transactions.
- Open Mainnet (Launching February 20, 2025): Marks full decentralization, allowing external transfers and exchange listings.
Meet The Founders
Dr. Nicolas Kokkalis, a Stanford PhD, taught Stanford’s first decentralised applications course (CS359B) in 2018. Specialising in distributed systems and human-computer interaction, he is dedicated to making cryptocurrency accessible to everyday users and expanding blockchain’s real-world applications.
Dr. Chengdiao Fan, a Stanford PhD in Anthropological Sciences, focuses on social computing to enhance human potential. She is building Pi Network to create an inclusive digital ecosystem where individuals worldwide can contribute, be rewarded, and drive global utility and innovation.