Ambassador, a Seattle startup that focuses on helping brands acquire customers through conversational commerce software, has recently added former leaders from Zipwhip to its team in an effort to drive growth. The company works with brands to create customer referral and rewards programs to enhance customer relationships and increase spending. With over 200 customers, including well-known brands like Verizon, H&R Block, and Kaplan, Ambassador has an annual recurring revenue of approximately $3 million.
Former Zipwhip executives, including Hank Skorny, John Larson, and James Lapic, have invested in Ambassador and are playing key roles in the company. Larson, who has taken on an operating role at Ambassador, mentioned that the startup is taking advantage of the AI and messaging technology boom to advance its business model. The company offers a platform that allows customers to share their positive experiences with a product or brand and get rewarded, similar to how influencers operate.
The CEO of Ambassador, Geoff McDonald, previously co-founded and led Seattle startup Element Data before acquiring Ambassador from Intrado in 2021. He has shifted his focus to grow Ambassador, and the company is currently in the process of finalizing a $4.5 million convertible note. In addition to the former Zipwhip leaders, other notable investors in Ambassador include prominent Seattle figures like Paul Stahura, Geoff Entress, and Archibald Cox, Jr.
With its unique approach to customer acquisition and retention through referral and rewards programs, Ambassador is positioned to lead the industry with its three-sided marketplace model. The company’s focus on leveraging cutting-edge technology like AI and messaging tools, combined with the expertise of its experienced leadership team, sets it apart in a competitive market. By offering customers the ability to share their positive experiences and earn rewards, Ambassador is creating a customer-led growth model that has proven successful for a wide range of brands.
The strong customer base, with top-tier clients like Verizon and H&R Block, speaks to Ambassador’s ability to deliver results and drive revenue through its software platform. With a total of $9.5 million raised to date, including the recent convertible note, Ambassador is well-positioned for continued growth and success in the rapidly evolving world of conversational commerce. The company’s emphasis on building strong customer relationships and providing innovative solutions for brands looking to expand their reach and engage with their target audience sets it apart as a leader in the industry.
