KeyBank buys loan counseling provider GradFin

Deal enhances company’s digital-first offering for healthcare clients

KeyBank has announced that it has acquired GradFin, a leading Public Service Loan Forgiveness counseling provider. The acquisition fits KeyBank’s commitment to accelerate growth through targeted investments in digital, niche businesses.

GradFin was founded in 2015 and is based in Philadelphia. The company offers “high-touch advisory solutions” for those seeking assistance with student loan debt, according to a press release announcing the acquisition. GradFin experts provide “one-stopshopping” for borrowers seeking debt solutions — with a particular focus on working with financial advisors and their clients.

“GradFin combines the best of digital and human interaction to create a unique client experience,” Jamie Warder, head of digital, KeyCorp, said in the release. “Advisors thoroughly understand the economic environment as well as the specific needs of healthcare providers, while the digital platform provides fast and effective solutions for debt relief and government forgiveness programs.” Warder added the approach fits KeyBank’s

“commitment to seamless client interactions.”

According to Chris Walters, CEO of GradFin, KeyBank has a track record in “acquiring and growing fintech companies.”

“We could not have asked for a better partner to help us launch into our next phase, continuing on our mission of bringing our loan education programs and market aggregation to financial advisors and their clients,” he said. Walters will continue to lead the GradFin team following the acquisition.

KeyBank’s acquisition of GradFin is the organization’s next step in providing digital innovation at scale through strategic partnerships with fintechs, the company said.

Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, KeyCorp operates in approximately 1,000 branches in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association, including branches in Chester, Montgomery, Bucks and Lehigh counties.