Markus Villig

Founder and CEO of Bolt — the Estonian super-app he started at 19 with ~€5,000 from his parents, becoming Europe’s youngest self-made billionaire at 27.

Born in 1993 and raised in Tallinn. Left computer science at the University of Tartu after one semester to run his company. Founded Bolt (originally Taxify) in 2013 at 19 with ~€5,000 borrowed from his parents, with his brother Martin as co-founder, initially aggregating Tallinn and Riga taxis. Rebranded to Bolt in 2019, reached unicorn status in 2019, and an $8.4 billion valuation in late 2021 made him Europe’s youngest self-made billionaire. Bolt now spans ride-hailing, scooters/e-bikes, and food/grocery delivery across Europe and Africa. Joined the Klarna board in March 2025.

Notable achievements

• Founded Bolt (as Taxify) in 2013 at age 19 with ~€5,000 from his parents.
• Rebranded to Bolt (2019) and reached unicorn status the same year.
• Reached an $8.4 billion valuation (late 2021), becoming Europe’s youngest self-made billionaire at 27.
• Built a super-app across ride-hailing, scooters/e-bikes, and delivery in Europe and Africa.
• Appointed to the Klarna board (March 2025).

Find them online