Viewpoint

Empowering Nonprofits with Seamless International Payments

Keith Vander Leest, Head of Payments, Cross River

May 31, 2024

2 min read

I’ve been lucky to witness firsthand the transformative impact of fintech on various sectors. And in fact this is one of the things I really love about my job, seeing fintechs innovate financial services in niche industries that aren’t always in the limelight. I am thrilled to share one such transformation. Our latest collaboration with Crowded, Visa, and Checkout.com, marks a significant milestone in our journey to streamline financial processes for nonprofits.

Visa Direct has been a revolutionary force in the payments industry, enabling the swift and secure transfer of funds across borders. Our partnership leverages this technology to empower nonprofit organizations with the ability to manage international transactions effortlessly. As a proud volunteer myself with Junior Achievement and Defy Ventures, two non-profits focused on financial empowerment and education for different groups of underserved people, this partnership holds special meaning to me.

Nonprofits often face unique financial challenges, especially when it comes to international operations. By integrating Visa Direct into Crowded’s digital banking platform, we’re providing these organizations with a robust tool to simplify their financial management, whether they’re sending payments to summer camp staff or supporting cross-border initiatives.

Cross River's dedication to philanthropy and the underbanked continues with this collaboration, empowering nonprofits hindered by high fees and long turnaround times to focus on their mission by simplifying international payments.

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Keith Vander Leest

Head of Payments

Cross River

Looking ahead: a more connected digital economy

What excites me most is that this is just the beginning. As we continue to work closely with our partners, we’re looking ahead to find ways to further enhance capabilities. Our goal is to create a more connected and inclusive digital economy, where nonprofits can thrive and make a difference on a global scale.  Moving money internationally is hard; we can make it easier. 

This is also a rewarding demonstration of the power of partnerships. The synergy between Cross River, Crowded, Visa, and Checkout.com is not just about technology; it’s about creating opportunities for others to achieve their goals with greater ease and efficiency. I’m proud to work at the forefront of this fintech evolution, and I look forward to the positive impact it will have on the nonprofit sector and beyond.

Learn more about our collaboration with Crowded, Visa, and Checkout.com here.