EarlyBird
EarlyBird is a fintech platform that turns everyday credit and debit card purchases into private-market investments. Users link existing cards to earn cash rewards on eligible spending, which a registered investment adviser automatically invests into portfolios of private startups, with no accredited investor requirements. The service is currently in a pilot phase, offering 3% rewards on dining and 2% on other eligible purchases.
- Financial Technology
- Software Only
Funding
Founders
Founder details are not available yet.
Product
Problem
Traditional investing in private markets—startups, real estate, and art—has been limited to wealthy, accredited investors, leaving everyday consumers with only public-market options or speculative, zero-sum products like sports betting and prediction markets. This gap prevents most people from building long-term wealth through diversified private assets.
Solution
EarlyBird provides an automated investing service that turns everyday purchases into ownership of private-market assets. Users link their existing cards, and the platform earns additional rewards in dollars on eligible purchases, which a registered investment adviser automatically invests into a portfolio of private startups. Users can also explore available offerings and invest directly in individual companies they choose. The service is open to all U.S. investors, with no accredited investor or income/net-worth requirements, and investments are made through Regulation Crowdfunding offerings.
Target Audience
Primary users are everyday U.S. consumers who want to build long-term wealth through private-market investments but lack the capital or accreditation typically required, as well as younger generations seeking an alternative to speculative financial products.
Features
- Automatic rewards on eligible purchases: 3% on dining and 2% on other spending during the pilot, up to a $50 monthly cap
- Rewards earned in dollars (not points) on top of existing card rewards, with the option to invest or withdraw them
- Managed portfolio option where a registered investment adviser selects and invests across private startup offerings
- Direct investment option allowing users to explore available Reg CF offerings and pick specific startups
- Read-only bank and card connections that don't change how users bank or spend
- Upcoming EarlyBird Card with up to 4% cashback converted into equity investments
- $0 annual fee for early access, with no carry or performance fees
- Waitlist referral program offering investment credits between $1 and $500