Smile API Weblog

Smile API recently participated in the inaugural Business Co-creation Dojo, a significant event aimed at accelerating innovation within the financial technology sector. This initiative, organized by Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) and the SMBC Asia Rising Fund (SARF), provided a dynamic platform for fostering collaboration and identifying promising fintech solutions.The event, held on March 10, 2025, at the RCBC Collaboration Hub (CollHub) within the A.T. Yuchengco Centre in Bonifacio Global City, Manila, Philippines, served as a hub for innovation, specifically focusing on the discovery and support of emerging fintech companies. The core mission was to address critical challenges within financial services, encompassing areas such as deposits, loans, loyalty programs, fraud prevention, digital payroll, and lending for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). - The program's central objective was to identify and invest in startups developing customer-centric banking solutions through the implementation of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. Notably, the initiative also aimed to facilitate the growth of these startups by leveraging the extensive global network and client base of the SMBC Group.The event drew participation from key figures and organizations within the financial industry, including representatives from RCBC, SARF, and notable individuals such as Lito Villanueva, Executive Vice President and Chief Innovations and Inclusion Officer of RCBC, and Karl Lyndon Pacolor, Assistant Director for the Bureau of Policy Research and Innovation at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Investment firms like Foxmont Capital Partners and Incubate Fund were represented, along with Mayoran Rajendra, Managing Director and Head of the Asia Innovation Centre at SMBC.Presentations were conducted by representatives from various companies, including Netbank (Gus Poston), Etaily (Alexander F.), Betterteem (Bo Discarga), Smile API (Jan Alvin Pabellon), Salmon (Pavel Fedorov), and Sprout Solutions (Patrick Gentry). These presentations showcased the diverse and innovative approaches being taken to address challenges in the financial sector.A rigorous evaluation process was implemented for participating startups, assessing key factors such as business model viability, social impact, scalability, market trends, potential for global expansion, and alignment with SMBC’s strategic direction. This thorough evaluation ensured that only the most promising and impactful solutions were considered for investment and support.Smile API's participation in the Business Co-creation Dojo underscores the company's unwavering commitment to enhancing financial inclusion. The company focuses on utilizing alternative credit data to improve credit decision-making processes within the financial services industry, thereby promoting greater access to financial services for individuals and businesses alike. By engaging in collaborative initiatives like this, Smile API aims to contribute to the development of a more inclusive and innovative financial ecosystem.

Smile API, a financial inclusion data provider for the fintech sector specializing in real-time access to income and employment data, has closed a funding round with the Up-Scaling program of DEG. DEG is the German Development Finance Institution. Through its Up-Scaling program, which is co-financed by the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), DEG finances innovative FinTech and GreenTech companies in emerging markets. In December 2023, DEG has chosen to fund Smile API with its efforts in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, recognizing its vital role in enhancing financial inclusion across Southeast Asia. The investment is a testament to the ongoing collaboration between Germany and Southeast Asia promoting sustainable economic growth and development. Smile API, with its innovative technology, plays a crucial role in bridging the financial inclusion gap in the region, enabling individuals to take control of their own personal information to get access to financial services. "DEG's funding represents a shared vision of empowering the underbanked and unbanked populations in Southeast Asia," stated Jerome Eger, CEO of Smile API. "Our technology, supported by DEG's belief in our mission, will drive forward a new era of financial inclusivity, where access to credit and financial services is no longer a barrier to economic participation and growth." Smile API harnesses data from diverse sources, including employment documents, HR and payroll systems, gig platforms, social security systems, and more. This approach enables more nuanced and inclusive credit decision-making, which traditional methods based on bank accounts and credit card history often overlook. The Up-Scaling financing aligns with Germany's broader efforts in the region, focusing on economic cooperation, renewable energy, environmental technology, and climate change mitigation. This funding is a step towards realizing the shared goal of sustainable development and inclusive economic growth. Smile API's commitment to financial inclusion and DEG's support exemplifies the power of international cooperation in addressing global economic challenges and advancing the welfare of communities across Southeast Asia. ### About Smile API Smile API is at the forefront of employment data analytics for credit decisions. The company provides a single API that aggregates employment data from various platforms, empowering lenders with enhanced decision-making capabilities, thereby increasing adoption and conversion, reducing costs, and minimizing risks. About DEGInvest DEG, a subsidiary of KfW, offers financing, advice and support to private sector enterprises operating in developing and emerging-market countries. As an experienced partner, DEG supports their customers with in-depth market knowledge, impact and climate expertise and an international network to advance forward looking investments. Press Contact For more details about Smile API, contact Bianca Ulan, Marketing Director, email: info@getsmileapi.com.

Financial technology frontrunner, Smile API, clinched the prestigious Gold Prize for Most Innovative Startup of the Year at the KMC Solutions Startup Awards held last November 24, in Makati City, Philippines. This accolade underscores Smile API's groundbreaking efforts to enhance financial access throughout Asia, starting with the Philippines. The KMC Startup Awards spotlight companies that are trailblazing in their respective industries. For Smile API, this recognition validates its innovative approach to addressing financial exclusion, a critical issue affecting over 1.7 billion adults globally. Smile API is on a mission to transform the landscape by enabling underbanked groups to securely share their financial information with lenders. Through integration with income statements, payroll systems, and other sources, Smile API provides real-time verified profiles. This empowers lenders to make informed decisions and extend financial services to underserved communities. Jerome Eger, CEO of Smile API, expressed his excitement about winning the award, stating, "This recognition endorses our team's innovative thinking and technological approach to driving financial inclusion. We are honored that our work to expand economic access through secure data sharing is being celebrated." Eger emphasized the enormity of the financial exclusion problem in Asia and noted, "Winning Most Innovative Startup tells us we are on the right path in using technology to increase access to loans, savings, insurance, and other essential financial services." The KMC Startup Awards, co-presented annually by Bossjob, aim to recognize excellence and innovation among Philippine startups. The event serves as a platform for trailblazing startups like Smile API to gain exposure, credibility, and valuable connections with potential investors and partners. For Smile API, being named Most Innovative Startup is a testament to its technological prowess and social impact. This award comes as a resounding endorsement of the company's commitment to driving positive change in the financial sector. As Smile API joins the ranks of exemplary startups recognized for excellence, it acknowledges the KMC Startup Awards as a pivotal moment. The recognition received will undoubtedly fuel Smile API's commitment to innovation and growth, furthering its mission to provide accessible financial services across Asia. Smile API expresses gratitude for the opportunity to showcase its work in expanding financial inclusion before esteemed judges and peers within the dynamic Philippine startup ecosystem. The Most Innovative Startup award at KMC Startup Awards 2023 marks a significant milestone in Smile API's journey to empower millions with economic access and mobility. Looking ahead, Smile API is eager to continue disrupting the financial services landscape through cutting-edge technology and an unwavering vision. The KMC Startup Awards 2023 stand as a testament to Smile API's dedication to making a lasting impact on the financial well-being of communities across Asia.

In a remarkable milestone for us at Smile API: our company has been selected to join the esteemed Google for Startups Cloud Academy APAC program. This exclusive 12-week training initiative is designed to support and empower 30 promising startups in the Asia-Pacific region, providing them with the tools and expertise to digitally transform their businesses. Smile's participation in this prestigious program highlights its position as a fast-growing, innovative startup that is revolutionizing the world of open finance and open data in Southeast Asia. Equity-Free Support and Accelerated Growth One of the standout features of the Google for Startups Cloud Academy APAC program is that it offers 12 weeks of equity-free support to the selected startups. For Smile, this means an unparalleled opportunity to focus on its core mission of enabling fintech lenders, background checkers, and employers to make better credit decisions and hire more effectively. With the burden of equity-related concerns alleviated, Smile can truly concentrate on accelerating its growth and expanding its footprint across the region. Leveraging Google's Technological Prowess As a participant in the program, Smile will gain invaluable access to Google's cutting-edge technologies, including machine learning, AI insights, and data analytics. This collaboration opens up a world of possibilities for Smile to enhance its platform's performance, optimize decision-making processes, and revolutionize the employment data landscape. By leveraging Google's technological prowess, Smile can further cement its position as the trusted source for employment data in Asia. Setting Ambitious Targets with Google's Signature Goal-Setting Methodology With Google's signature goal-setting methodology at their disposal, Smile will learn how to set ambitious targets and effectively track progress. This strategic approach ensures that Smile remains focused on delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers. By embracing this methodology, Smile is well-equipped to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving landscape of open finance and open data. Personalized Support and Networking Opportunities A standout feature of the program is that each startup, including Smile, will be matched with a dedicated Google mentor. This personalized support provides tailored guidance and insights to help Smile navigate the challenges of scaling and expanding its operations. Furthermore, the program creates a platform for networking with other startups, fostering an environment of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. As part of the Google for Startups alumni network, Smile can tap into the collective wisdom of fellow founders, unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation. Endorsement and Recognition Upon successful completion of the Google for Startups Cloud Academy APAC program, Smile will be awarded a program certificate, endorsed by Google for Startups. This recognition not only validates Smile's commitment to excellence but also serves as a testament to its potential to transform the world of open finance and open data in Southeast Asia. The program certificate will enhance Smile's credibility and further solidify its position as a leader in the industry. Conclusion Smile's inclusion in the Google for Startups Cloud Academy APAC program is a testament to our fast-growing and innovative nature. By

The Fintech Revolution Summit 2023 brought together fintech leaders, FSI experts, and industry professionals from the Asia Pacific Region to explore trends and investment opportunities in the finance sector. Held on May 24-25 at the New Coast Hotel Manila, this year's event centered on "Unleashing the Power of Fintech" and highlighted the Philippines' potential as Southeast Asia's next fintech hub. - The Smile Technology team was present at the 2-day summit, showcasing our financial technology solution, Smile API. During Smile CEO Jerome Eger's speaking session, he emphasized the importance of reliable employment data for loan underwriting and credit decisions. Unlike traditional credit data sources such as credit scores or manually submitted documents, Smile API provides greater coverage and real-time access to the most recent, comprehensive, and verified user data straight from employment platforms and authoritative sources like government systems. As a result, financial services and fintech companies can now make more informed decisions, increase adoption and conversion rates, reduce costs, and mitigate risks. - Among the featured Fintech Revolution Summit industry speakers were Lito Villanueva, the Executive Vice President of the Alliance of Digital Finance Associations in the Philippines, and CEOs Albert Tinio of GoTyme Bank and Henry Aguda of UnionDigital, who shared their insights on digital banking and the growing fintech landscape in the country. The future of loan underwriting and credit decisions Smile's participation at the summit highlighted the company's commitment to revolutionizing the financial services industry. Our solution acknowledges the fact that there is a lack of centralized data sources for loan underwriting and employment background checks. By bridging the data gap and enabling faster, more accurate decision-making processes, Smile continues to lead the way in fintech innovation, empowering users with better opportunities and companies with better credit decisions.

The Credit Management Association of the Philippines (CMAP) recently celebrated its 41st National Credit Congress, coinciding with its 91st founding anniversary. The event was held on April 26, 2023, at the Quezon City Sports Club. Esteemed guest speakers and industry experts attended the event, which revolved around the theme "Tools of the Trade for the Evolution of the Credit Landscape." The day was filled with insightful discussions and learning opportunities. The day began with an engaging talk by Mr. Jonathan Ravelas, CTA, who discussed Philippine economic and financial trends. Ms. Doreen Cooper also captivated the audience with her presentation on holistic wellness for credit practitioners, emphasizing the importance of a healthy work-life balance. Distinguished guests, including Comm. Bryant Fernandez of the Securities and Exchange Commission and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., shared their messages, supporting the event and its vision. - The Smile team was present at the event, showcasing our innovative solution for credit management executives and professionals. As we highlighted, lenders in the Philippines lack reliable, recent, and comprehensive borrower data, particularly for the unbanked or marginalized population. Smile addresses this issue by leveraging employment data, as a viable alternative option for credit data, to streamline loan origination and reduce the risk in loan underwriting. Unlike traditional credit data, such as credit scores or manually submitted documents, Smile offers greater coverage, real-time access, and verified data about borrowers' identity, employment, and income. These data come from employment documents, HR and payroll systems, gig economy platforms, and government systems—all with the permission of the borrower. Events like the National Credit Congress provide a platform for shaping the future of the industry and driving economic growth in the Philippines. As CMAP spearheads advancements in credit management, Smile is poised to lead the way in revolutionizing the credit landscape in the Philippines with our solution for providing access to accurate and comprehensive alternative credit data.