Kikoff Marketplace Builds on Early Success with Expansion Into Auto Loans

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SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sep 18, 2025--

Kikoff, the leader in credit building, announces its new marketplace designed to connect consumers with subprime credit scores to financial products. This launch expands access for those traditionally shut out of financial opportunities and is part of the company’s effort and commitment to help the underserved community. To date, Kikoff users have collectively increased their credit by more than 80 million points, a testament to the company’s impact in helping achieve financial progress.

The initial rollout of Kikoff Marketplace was met with strong demand, leading to rapid expansion. What began with access to credit cards, personal loans, and insurance is now expanding to include auto refinancing and auto purchase. The marketplace features partnerships with providers including Lemonade, Caribou, Root, and MoneyLion.

“Our goal in helping people build credit was never just about the score itself,” said Cynthia Chen, Founder and CEO of Kikoff. “It’s about opening doors to opportunities that once felt out of reach, and building a future where financial progress is possible for everyone.”

Addressing a Widely Underserved Market

Kikoff Marketplace is designed for consumers historically excluded from financial access due to their poor credit scores. For millions of Americans with subprime credit scores, the odds of approval remain disproportionately low. Based on a 2023 CFPB study, subprime consumers have just a 17% approval rate for general-purpose credit cards, compared to 41% for near prime, 63% for prime, 79% for prime plus, and 86% for super prime. With such limited access, many subprime applicants are shut out of quality credit products altogether and left with predatory services that carry unfavorable terms.

By using Kikoff to build their credit, customers reach higher scores and stronger profiles. With that progress, Kikoff can identify which products they’re most likely to qualify for and connect them directly. For many, it’s an important milestone, seeing their efforts in building credit finally translate into real financial opportunities.

Anthony Mota of Grand Rapids, MI, had been denied multiple times when applying for credit cards through traditional channels. With Kikoff, he finally received approval. “Other places made the process difficult, but Kikoff made it easy,” said Mota. “Having a card has helped me financially. It helps me cover everyday needs, from groceries to gas to small emergencies.”

The Vision: Building Toward the Future of Credit

Kikoff Marketplace is in its first phase of a much broader vision. Currently, it connects customers with the financial products they qualify for today. Looking ahead, it will empower users with tools and options to build a stronger financial future. Customers will be able to preview the better offers they’re on track to unlock, along with the roadmap and guidance to get there. Kikoff will also forecast eligibility and timing, giving people a clearer path to their financial goals.

Kikoff Marketplace will expand into other sectors such as mortgage, banking, savings, and investing—cementing Kikoff’s role as the leader in credit building and a long-term partner in helping people achieve lasting financial progress.

To learn more about Kikoff and its credit-building solutions, visit: kikoff.com.

Potential partners interested in exploring opportunities with Kikoff Marketplace are encouraged to contact [email protected].

About Kikoff

Kikoff was built on the belief that predatory financial services shouldn’t exist. As a consumer-focused personal finance platform, Kikoff is making financial progress accessible, especially for those overlooked by traditional systems. We offer simple, radically affordable tools powered by technology and AI to help people build credit, lower debt, and move toward long-term financial stability. To date, Kikoff has helped over 1 million people increase their credit scores by more than 80 million points. Our growing suite of products also helps users reduce debt, access liquidity, and unlock greater financial opportunity. Learn more at kikoff.com or by downloading the Kikoff app.

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CONTACT: Media Contact:

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Pitch Public Relations

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KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA CALIFORNIA

INDUSTRY KEYWORD: TECHNOLOGY MEN FAMILY FINANCE CONSUMER APPS/APPLICATIONS AUTOMOTIVE PERSONAL FINANCE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES SOFTWARE OTHER CONSUMER FINTECH OTHER AUTOMOTIVE WOMEN

SOURCE: Kikoff

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PUB: 09/18/2025 02:48 PM/DISC: 09/18/2025 02:47 PM

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