Upside VC

Upside, formerly known as GetUpside, is a retail technology company that operates a popular cash-back app and a platform designed to empower both consumers and brick-and-mortar businesses. The company's core offering provides personalized cash-back offers on everyday purchases such as gas, groceries, and dining, allowing consumers to increase their purchasing power. For retailers, Upside's platform drives new, incremental profit without requiring changes to their existing operations, by attracting new customers and encouraging repeat business.

The company was founded in 2016, with its origins as GetUpside. Co-founders include Alex Kinnier (CEO), Wayne Lin (CPO), Rick McPhee (CIO), Jan Rubio (Principal Designer), and Joanna Kochaniak (CTO). The team, many of whom previously worked at Google and Opower, leveraged their expertise in data-driven personalization and ad-serving platforms to create a unique economic model for brick-and-mortar commerce. Upside has grown significantly, securing multiple funding rounds, including a Series D in 2022, and expanding its reach to millions of consumers and tens of thousands of businesses.

As an operating company, Upside does not have a portfolio of investments in other companies. Instead, its impact is measured by the financial benefits it delivers to its users and merchant partners. To date, Upside has facilitated over $1 billion in cash back for consumers and generated $2.5 billion in new, incremental profit for retailers. The platform annually processes approximately $6 billion in commerce. Beyond its financial impact, Upside is committed to sustainability, dedicating 1% of its revenue to initiatives that offset carbon emissions and rescue food.

The leadership team at Upside comprises experienced professionals from various backgrounds in technology, product development, retail, and consumer engagement. Key leaders, including co-founders Alex Kinnier and Wayne Lin, bring a wealth of knowledge in scaling technology platforms and fostering strategic partnerships. The company emphasizes a mission-driven culture, focusing on advancing the economic power of people and businesses in the real world, supported by a diverse and inclusive workplace.