THINKey: The chilean edTech transforming STEAM education for over a decade
Since their foundation in 2015, they have created innovative and personalized educational experiences for students all over Chile, such as science fairs and afterschool programs. Their impact transcends the classrooms, influencing public policies and expanding to the international arena. With a diverse team and a commitment to creativity and social responsibility, THINKey seeks to inspire new generations to explore and create without limits.
In an increasingly connected world, education faces the challenge of preparing all students for the jobs of the future, where skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving become essential.
In this context, the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) approach positions itself as key tools to tackle these challenges from educational innovation. It is in this scenario that THINKey, a Chilean company combining creativity, learning, and fun, emerged to educate in the 21st century. And it all started with a simple idea: Learning can be as exciting as playing.
Shared Dream
The brothers Diego and Marta González Cruz grew up surrounded by nature and the extreme landscapes of the Magallanes Region. During those long winter afternoons, their mother sought creative ways to keep them entertained at home. That's how the first home scientific experiments were born, sparking a curiosity that eventually turned into THINKey.
In 2015, the brothers decided to take that spark to a larger stage with their "Mad Science Show", a touring performance that combined experiments, laughter, and learning. What started as a one-time activity quickly turned into a life mission: to transform Chilean education through STEAM experiences.
"When we first started our initial College Science Show, we made a toothpaste so, so big that the 300 children who were there screamed with joy and awe; it was something very fun and impactful for them," explains Marta González Cruz, Co-Founder THINKey.
Today, this network of creative minds boasts a diverse and dedicated team that works tirelessly to bring unique educational experiences to students all over Chile. Diego, a trained biochemist, leads the technological vision from the United States, while Marta, an agricultural engineer, oversees the on-the-ground operations. Alongside them, a team of 40 professionals - including educators, designers and psychologists - and over 34 STEAM instructors make it possible for science and technology to reach thousands of students.
Experiences
What does this edtech do? Its approach involves creating personalized experiences that connect with the needs of each educational community. From science fairs filled with hands-on experiments to after-school programs that integrate STEAM with the national curriculum, therefore the range is as varied as it is innovative.
They have even brought science into classrooms, schoolyards, and even birthdays, transforming each space into an interactive laboratory where learning occurs naturally. In addition, they collaborate with companies to develop educational projects that connect social responsibility and creativity.
Impact that transcends classrooms. Since its foundation in 2016, they launched their first STEAM Summer Camp, and a year later they won a $20 million fund from Startup Chile. In 2019, their ideas even influenced public policies during APEC. And they don't stop: this year, they premiered their first scientific theater play and aim to reach more than 100,000 students by 2025.
"Our services are primarily aimed at girls, boys, and young people aged between 4 and 17, with adjustments according to the needs and characteristics of each age group," adds Marta Gonzalez Cruz.
Future
With operations spanning from Antofagasta to Osorno, this educational project is beginning to explore new international horizons. Thanks to Diego's residency in the United States, the company has established strategic alliances that promise to take their STEAM experiences beyond Chilean borders. In addition, initiatives such as the "Marble Challenge" developed with support from the Chilean-American Institute and the US Embassy 2014 showcase their ability and commitment to uniting creativity, education, and international cooperation.
The story of THINKey is not only an example of educational innovation, but also a reminder of how a spark of curiosity can become a driver of change. "With every experiment, every camp, and every transformed classroom, we show that education doesn't have to be boring, and that the future is built by inspiring new generations to explore, discover, and create", Marta concludes.