Beam raises $6.4M to assist residents entry security internet funds • TechCrunch

Beam, a startup that helps residents entry authorities monetary support, has raised $6.4 million in Collection A funding.

The corporate, beforehand often called Edquity, helps ship funds throughout a wide selection of applications, like emergency money help, rental reduction and public utility advantages.

“We essentially work to transmit important companies and sources to these in want,” mentioned David Helene, CEO of Beam.

The corporate’s Collection A funding comes as the corporate mentioned it noticed a larger want to offer deprived communities with monetary assist following the COVID-19 pandemic. Beam mentioned the funds can be used to increase its headcount and additional develop its platforms. The spherical was led by Potencia Ventures, with participation from Spring Level Companions, American Household Insurance coverage Institute for Company and Social Impression, Conceivable Futures, Lumina Impression Ventures, Michelson Runway, and Schmidt Futures.

Beam, when partnered with governments, operates because the end-to-end money help administration system, which handles functions, ID verification, case choices, and funds.

“Our system has a single system of information,” mentioned Helene. “Our intent is to create the least quantity of friction and probably the most dignity for these which can be interacting with functions within the system.” Beam mentioned it permits candidates to obtain funds by checking account, a pay as you go card, or on-line companies like Zelle to serve communities equitably.

Beam says it has helped course of over $180 million to about 300,000 households. The corporate at present has operations in 16 states with 57 governments.