Upstart

Founded by ex-Googlers, Upstart is an online lending platform offering 3-year fixed-interest loans. Interest rates are based on academic and professional background rather than credit history alone. Upstart's proprietary underwriting model identifies high quality borrowers despite limited credit and employment experience. Borrowers on Upstart use funds to consolidate debt, refinance credit cards at lower rates, pay for educational expenses, or finance other large expenses. Upstart is venture backed by Google Ventures, KPCB, Khosla Ventures, Founders Fund, First Round Capital, Eric Schmidt, and Mark Cuban.