n8n Founder Jan Oberhauser on AI, Automation, and European Tech

Jan de Vries · 2026-03-26

Ever feel like you're doing the same coding tasks over and over? That's exactly where Jan Oberhauser found himself before creating n8n. This week, we're diving into a conversation with the founder and CEO of one of Europe's most interesting automation platforms. n8n is a Berlin-based workflow automation tool that's built differently. It lets developers and businesses connect apps, automate processes, and build AI-driven workflows without giving up control. The best part? You actually own your data. ### From Frustration to Innovation Jan's journey started with that simple frustration we all know too well—repetitive coding. He was tired of writing the same integrations again and again. So he built something better. What began as a personal solution has grown into one of Europe's best-known automation companies. What makes n8n stand out is its fair-code approach. It's open by nature, which means both technical teams and enterprises love it. There's a real community driving the technology forward, and that's been central to its growth from day one.  ### The Philosophy Behind the Name You're probably wondering about that unusual name. n8n—pronounced 'n-eight-n'—has a story behind it that reflects the company's entire philosophy. Jan shares how the name represents their commitment to being node-based and community-driven. Here's what really matters to European businesses right now: - Data ownership and control - The ability to self-host solutions - Flexibility in how they automate These aren't just nice-to-haves anymore. They're becoming essential as companies navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape. ### Europe's Place in the AI Race Jan has some fascinating thoughts on where Europe stands in the global AI competition. How do we compare to the US and China? What are our strengths, and where do we need to catch up? He also reflects on what businesses actually want from automation and AI tools today. It's not just about flashy features—it's about practical solutions that solve real problems. The conversation touches on unexpected use cases for n8n and what traits Jan values when he invests in other founders. As Jan puts it, "The most successful tools are the ones that give people back their time without taking away their control." ### Looking Ahead The AI landscape moves fast, and Europe has a unique opportunity to shape it. With companies like n8n leading the way, there's a real chance to build technology that serves people first. The focus on openness, community, and practical automation might just be Europe's secret weapon. Whether you're a developer tired of repetitive tasks or a business looking to automate smarter, there's something to learn from n8n's journey. It shows that sometimes the best solutions come from solving your own problems first, then sharing that solution with the world.