Founder Spotlight: Sunny Khurana, the Visionary Behind Spark

In the fast-paced world of startups, where innovation meets resilience, Sunny Khurana stands out as a founder who is not just creating a product, but an experience. As the mastermind behind Spark, Sunny is redefining how people connect through shared experiences, offering a platform that is as much about building relationships as it is about discovering unique adventures.

Spark, founded with the idea of bringing people closer together in an increasingly disconnected world, is a testament to Sunny's vision. The platform curates exclusive experiences for high earners, providing them with opportunities to bond over unforgettable moments. As Spark continues to evolve, its mission has expanded to not only offer unique adventures but also foster genuine connections within its growing community.

But who is the man behind the vision? In this candid interview, Sunny shares his journey, insights, and the driving force behind Spark. From his inspiration to start the company to his thoughts on resilience in the startup ecosystem, Sunny offers a glimpse into the mind of an entrepreneur who is not afraid to take risks and push the boundaries of innovation.

Q&A with Sunny Khurana, Founder of Spark

Q: What inspired you to start your company and has that initial vision evolved over time?
Sunny Khurana: "The inspiration to start Spark came from a deep desire to create meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences in a world that often feels disconnected. I saw an opportunity to bridge the gap between high earners looking for something beyond the ordinary and exclusive experiences that could truly enrich their lives. The idea was to curate a platform where people could not only discover unique experiences but also connect with like-minded individuals, forming genuine relationships through shared adventures.

Over time, this initial vision has evolved. While the core mission remains the same—fostering connections through experiences—our understanding of what our users want and need has deepened. We've expanded our offerings, introduced new features, and adapted to the changing landscape of how people engage with each other and the world around them. Now, Spark isn’t just about providing experiences; it’s about building a community, supporting relationships, and offering a platform where every interaction is meaningful and memorable."

Q: Explain what your company does so a 6-year-old would understand it.
Sunny Khurana: "At Spark, we help people find fun and special things to do together, like going to cool places, eating yummy food, or having exciting adventures. It's like a magic book full of amazing ideas for friends or couples to enjoy and make happy memories together! So, if someone wants to have a great time with someone they care about, they can use Spark to find the best ideas and make it happen!"

Q: Who is your favorite entrepreneur and why do you find them inspiring?
Sunny Khurana: "My favourite entrepreneur is Elon Musk. I find him incredibly inspiring because of his fearless approach to innovation and ability to tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges. Whether it’s revolutionizing space travel with SpaceX, pushing the boundaries of electric vehicles with Tesla, or exploring new possibilities with ventures like Neuralink, Musk consistently shows that with vision, determination, and resilience, you can turn even the most ambitious ideas into reality. His willingness to take risks and think outside the box motivates me to pursue bold ideas and stay committed to my vision, no matter how challenging it may seem."

Q: When you are at your absolute bottom and are going through professional challenges, how do you lift yourself up?
Sunny Khurana: "When I'm at my absolute bottom and facing professional challenges, I remind myself of why I started in the first place—my passion for creating something meaningful and the impact I want to make. I take a step back, breathe, and focus on the progress I've made so far, no matter how small. I also lean on the support of close friends, mentors, or my team, who help me gain perspective and remind me that setbacks are part of the journey.

Another key thing I do is break down the challenges into smaller, manageable steps. Tackling one thing at a time makes the situation feel less overwhelming. I also make time for activities that recharge me, whether it’s a walk, some quiet reflection, or simply stepping away for a bit. It helps clear my mind and regain focus.

Finally, I remember that every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. It’s about resilience—getting back up, adjusting the plan, and continuing to move forward with the belief that I can overcome whatever obstacles come my way."

Q: Why do you believe you are personally best positioned to build your business?
Sunny Khurana: "I believe I’m personally best positioned to build my business because of my unique combination of passion, experience, and resilience. Having started Spark from scratch, I’ve faced the challenges of building a company in a new market with no initial connections, and I’ve come out stronger on the other side. My deep understanding of the customer experience, coupled with my ability to connect with people and build meaningful relationships, gives me an edge in creating a platform that truly resonates with users.

I’m also relentless in my pursuit of excellence. The idea of success does not just drive me, but the impact Spark can have on people’s lives. My entrepreneurial journey has taught me valuable lessons in adaptability, perseverance, and the importance of a clear vision. These experiences have shaped me into a leader who is committed to seeing Spark grow and succeed, regardless of the obstacles along the way.

In essence, my passion for the business, combined with my hands-on experience and unwavering commitment, makes me uniquely equipped to lead Spark to its full potential."

Q: Over the last 12 months, what is your most profound realization/insight regarding the startup ecosystem?
Sunny Khurana: "Over the last 12 months, my most profound realization about the startup ecosystem is the importance of resilience and adaptability. The journey of building a startup is filled with unexpected challenges, from market shifts to operational hurdles, and the ability to pivot, learn, and adapt quickly is crucial for survival and growth.

I’ve also come to deeply understand that the startup ecosystem is as much about people as it is about products. Building strong relationships—whether with your team, investors, or customers—is essential. It’s not just about having a great idea; it’s about surrounding yourself with the right people who believe in your vision and are willing to support you through the ups and downs.

Lastly, I’ve realized that persistence is key. Success doesn’t come overnight, and there will be moments when giving up seems like the easiest option. But those who push through, who continue to believe in their vision even when the path isn’t clear, are the ones who ultimately succeed. The startup ecosystem rewards those who are not only innovative but also relentlessly determined."

Q: What is your favorite sandwich?
Sunny Khurana: "I'd probably go for a classic grilled cheese sandwich. It's simple, comforting, and a perfect balance of crispy bread and melted cheese. How about you—what's your favorite sandwich? Let me know - sunny@spark.love"

Q: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or those looking to start their own companies?
Sunny Khurana: "For anyone looking to start a company, I would advise staying deeply connected to their 'why.' Understand the core reason behind your desire to start a business, as this will be your anchor during challenging times. Building a company is a marathon, not a sprint, so having a clear purpose will keep you motivated and focused.

Next, don’t be afraid to take risks. Starting a company requires stepping out of your comfort zone and making bold decisions. Embrace the uncertainty and be willing to fail, learn, and adapt quickly. The most successful entrepreneurs see setbacks as opportunities to grow.

It’s also crucial to surround yourself with the right people—mentors, advisors, and a supportive team who share your vision and complement your skills. No one builds a successful company alone, and having a strong support network can make all the difference.

Finally, be patient and persistent. Success rarely happens overnight. Stay committed to your vision, even when progress feels slow. Every small step forward is a step toward building something great. Keep pushing, keep learning, and never lose sight of your passion for what you’re creating."

Sunny Khurana’s journey with Spark is a powerful reminder of the importance of passion, resilience, and a clear vision in the startup world. His commitment to creating meaningful connections through curated experiences has not only shaped the platform but also the lives of its users. As Spark continues to grow, Sunny’s leadership and unwavering belief in his mission will undoubtedly inspire many others in the entrepreneurial community.

For those looking to create something impactful, Sunny’s story is a testament to the power of staying connected to your "why," embracing risks, and persisting through challenges. As Spark evolves, we look forward to seeing how Sunny’s vision continues to transform the way people connect and experience the world.

To learn more about Sunny and Spark, or to get in touch with him, feel free to reach out at sunny@spark.love.