Adro Secures Additional $500,000 in Pre-Seed Funding to Expand Financial Services for International Populations

Adro, a New York-based technology company dedicated to helping international students and workers access financial services in the United States, has secured an additional $500,000 in pre-seed funding. This latest investment elevates the company's total pre-seed round to $2 million, marking a significant milestone in its development. The new funding includes contributions from Empire State Development's NY Ventures, the state's venture capital arm, and Jim Wiseman, President of Margaritaville Development. Additional investment also came from Era, founded by Jasper Lau.

Amarildo Gjondrekaj, CEO and Co-founder of Adro, emphasized the company's commitment to serving traditionally underserved and underbanked international populations. His personal connection to the mission is rooted in his family's immigrant experience, having settled in New York from Albania over two decades ago. Hope Knight, Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner, highlighted the importance of supporting inclusive entrepreneurship. She noted that Adro represents the type of innovative company that creates economic opportunities for underserved communities while contributing to New York's vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Looking ahead, Adro plans to launch US dollar business accounts next month, enabling international companies to expand their US presence. These deposit-insured accounts will help non-US companies establish themselves in the United States, obtain an EIN, and accept US card payments. The company has also seen notable individual achievements, with Co-founder and COO Sara Schmitt recently being accepted into the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center Milestone Makers program, a prestigious initiative supporting entrepreneurs in achieving key business milestones.

Adro's recent funding and strategic initiatives underscore its commitment to breaking down financial barriers for international students and workers, providing critical access to checking, savings, and credit services in the United States. The involvement of Empire State Development's NY Ventures signals governmental recognition of the economic importance of inclusive financial technology. This funding matters because it addresses a significant gap in the financial system where international populations often face challenges accessing basic banking services, which can hinder educational and professional opportunities in the United States.

The implications of this announcement extend beyond the immediate capital infusion. By facilitating US dollar business accounts for international companies, Adro is positioned to stimulate cross-border economic activity and support global entrepreneurship. The company's focus on this niche market could establish a new standard for financial inclusion in the technology sector. Furthermore, the participation of investors like Jim Wiseman and Jasper Lau's Era demonstrates growing private sector interest in solutions that bridge financial accessibility gaps. This development is important as it represents a tangible step toward creating more equitable financial systems that recognize the contributions and needs of immigrant communities and international businesses operating in the American economy.