n8n is an innovative workflow automation platform founded in 2019 by Jan Oberhauser and based in Berlin, Germany. The platform allows users to automate tasks by connecting various applications and services through an intuitive visual interface. With its open-source approach and a community-driven development model, n8n has gained traction among technical teams looking to enhance productivity through automation. By 2025, n8n had raised a total of $73.1 million over three funding rounds, with key investments from Sequoia Capital, Felicis Ventures, and Highland Europe.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2019 |
| Headquarters | Berlin, Germany |
| Founders | Jan Oberhauser |
| Funding Raised | $73.1M |
| Key Investors | Sequoia Capital, Felicis Ventures, Highland Europe |
| Industry | Workflow Automation |
| Employees | Global presence across multiple continents |
Founded in 2019, n8n was created to solve common challenges in workflow automation tools—specifically, accessibility versus flexibility. Jan Oberhauser, having extensive experience in creating visual effects for major films like "Maleficent," built n8n to allow complex, multi-step workflows that combine third-party APIs with internal tools seamlessly. Initially relying on organic growth within developer communities, n8n focused on a fair-code licensing model to encourage contribution and adoption. By early 2020, n8n had already started receiving substantial attention, demonstrating the effectiveness of its open-source, community-driven model, capturing an important segment of the market eager for more transparent and flexible automation solutions.
n8n operates under a unique business model that combines the flexibility of coding with the ease of no-code solutions, catering to both developers and non-technical users. Key milestones include:
n8n's operations focus on providing a flexible, extendable platform that integrates over 400 tools, making complex workflows accessible and scalable. Its market position is strengthened by its ability to seamlessly incorporate AI technologies, offering unprecedented customization for users through both cloud and on-premises installations. In 2024, n8n saw a 40% growth in cloud service subscriptions, indicating strong demand for their services (source). The company positions itself against competitors like Zapier by offering a fair-code distribution model that empowers users to adjust workflows to their specific needs, thus enabling a broader range of applications and use cases.
n8n has positioned itself at the forefront of workflow automation by marrying flexibility with transparency and community involvement. The platform supports a diverse range of automation needs, from streamlining simple processes to integrating sophisticated AI solutions. As automation becomes more integral to business operations, n8n's fair-code, open-source model likely will continue to attract technical teams and enterprises seeking adaptable, efficient solutions. With plans to further expand geographically and enhance product offerings, n8n is poised to maintain its growth trajectory and continue shaping the landscape of workflow automation.