FinovateSpring 2009 / SmartHippo
Presenter Profile:
How they describe themselves: SmartHippo.com is the first ever platform that allows individuals to use the power of the community to save money when shopping for rates on financial products and services. Many borrowers currently end up with higher mortgage rates simply because they lack the necessary information or knowledge to negotiate the best possible deal. SmartHippo champions a consumer-friendly approach to lending based on transparency and accountability. We’re leveling the playing field and putting the balance of power back in the hands of consumers. Lenders can create a profile, have a conversation with customers, and post their rates for free.
What they think makes them better: Other web sites advertise bait and switch rates, or simply collect consumers’ personal data in order to sell it to the highest bidder. SmartHippo is the first truly transparent marketplace where consumers can rank and review lenders and where the best rates and lenders with the best feedback filter to the top. Lenders do not pay to be included, and consumer can shop anonymously and for free.
Contacts:
Bus. Dev.: George Favvas, Cofounder and CEO, 514-667-1572, george@smarthippo.com
Sales: Martin Hudon, Cofounder and VP Operations and Engagement, 514-667-1574, martin@smarthippo.com
Press: Kelly Rusk, Community Manager, 415-839-9211, kelly@smarthippo.com
Website: www.smarthippo.com
Blog: blog.smarthippo.com
Twitter: @smarthippo
HQ Location: San Francisco, California and Montreal, Canada
Company Founded: June 2008 (spin off)
Product Being Demoed: SmartHippo Answers
Product Launched: Today
Metrics: $400k raised, 7 employees, rates from over 200 lenders
- Key Executives
George Favvas (Cofounder and CEO), Martin Hudon (Cofounder and VP Operations and Engagement)
Key Stats
- Key Board Members
Lori Collins (former GM at LendingTree, SVP at Bank of America, Marketing Director at AmEx), Jason White (GM at Fox Interactive Audience Network, former VP Online Marketing at Countrywide Bank, manager at LowerMyBills), Bill Rice (VP Content at MortgageLoan.com, founder of Kaleidico, former VP Home Equity at Quicken Loans), John Philip Green (CTO at LearnHub)
- Key Advisory Board Members
Lori Collins (former GM at LendingTree, SVP at Bank of America, Marketing Director at AmEx), Jason White (GM at Fox Interactive Audience Network, former VP Online Marketing at Countrywide Bank, manager at LowerMyBills), Bill Rice (VP Content at MortgageLoan.com, founder of Kaleidico, former VP Home Equity at Quicken Loans), John Philip Green (CTO at LearnHub)
- Key Partnerships
Kaleidico, Commission Junction, Mortgagebot
- Key Customers
Over 200 lenders including ING DIRECT, Quicken Loans, Fifth Third Bank, RMC Vanguard