Klout is the most ridiculous thing ever. Sure, it helps you visibly notice who could be considered an influencer, but the scoring system is completely messed up and the topics you're authoritative on can be completely off base with no mention at all.
Yeah- a lot of startups are born from people coming up with an idea to solve a common problem... or even just an idea for something that they think would be neat/amazing.
Plus, they essentially are a user by default of a product/service they wanted for themselves in the first place. It's a great way to bring passion to the masses...