GradBridge Raises $20M Series A
GradBridge, a fintech startup based in Newark, Delaware, has raised $20 million in a Series A funding round. The company specializes in a student lending platform designed to provide credit to high-performing students who fall just outside the underwriting criteria of traditional lenders.
The funding round was led by Acorn Investment Partners, a portfolio company of funds managed by global investment manager Oaktree Capital Management L.P.
The capital will be used to provide the stability and liquidity required to launch its suite of loan products and to scale operations, including its move to a new corporate headquarters in Newark and an expansion of its workforce.
Founded by CEO Jen O'Donald, GradBridge is a mission-driven fintech company that utilizes a sponsor bank framework and an originate-and-sell business model to provide private student loans. Its platform focuses on near-approval borrowers, aiming to reduce student dropout rates and support graduation through financial access.
Funding Details
Company Website: https://gradbridge.com
Company: GradBridge
Raised: $20M
Round: Series A
Funding Date: June 1, 2026
Lead Investor: Acorn Investment Partners
Software Category: Fintech