Saquon Barkley, the standout running back for the Philadelphia Eagles, has not only invested in the fintech startup Ramp but is also featured in the company’s inaugural Super Bowl advertisement.
Notably, Barkley initiated contact with Ramp regarding his investment, a contrast to the typical scenario where companies approach celebrities for endorsements.
After reading Peter Thiel’s book, Zero to One, Barkley reached out to Ramp, as recounted by CEO and co-founder Eric Glyman. Barkley was directed to Ramp through several mutual investors who provided “strong” endorsements, Glyman added.
In a blog post published on Ramp’s website on February 6, Barkley stated, “True partnership requires skin in the game. That’s why I invested in Ramp. I saw firsthand how they’re empowering American businesses to reduce expenses and enhance their performance. That’s the kind of impact I aspire to create.”
According to Glyman, the 15-second commercial, which humorously depicts Barkley overwhelmed by a pile of expense reports, was planned, filmed, and completed in just a week.
Founded in 2019, Ramp has established itself in the realms of corporate card issuance and expense management. The company has expanded its offerings to include travel management, bill payment, and more, currently holding a valuation of $7.65 billion.
Ramp notes that Barkley’s investment is the largest private technology investment he has made to date. His investment portfolio also includes backing for crypto venture Monad Labs, fintech startup Sequin, and beverage brand X2 Performance, as reported by PitchBook.
Viewers can catch the Super Bowl on February 9, featuring the Philadelphia Eagles competing against the Kansas City Chiefs.
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