Ramp is trying to get the US government as a customer after seeing a tweet from DOGE

Tech Crunch - Apr 17th, 2025

Expense management startup Ramp is being considered for a significant opportunity with the U.S. government’s General Services Administration (GSA) as part of a charge card pilot program. With the potential contract valued at up to $25 million, Ramp would be tapping into the massive $700 billion SmartPay program. The startup, which has aggressively lobbied for government attention, is competing in a standard procurement process. Lindsay McKinley, Ramp's head of communications, emphasized the company's proven technology in preventing wasted spending, which they aim to extend to the federal government if selected.

The bid for the charge card pilot program is set against a backdrop of Ramp's connections to influential figures like Elon Musk and former President Trump. The company's investors include notable names such as Peter Thiel’s Founders Fund and Thrive Capital, among others. This network potentially positions Ramp favorably within the current political and economic landscape. With a valuation of $13 billion following a recent funding round, Ramp is well-capitalized, having raised over $1 billion in equity financing since its inception in 2019. If successful, this government contract could enhance Ramp's profile and further solidify its place in the fintech industry.

Donald Trump Elon Musk Government Efficiency Peter Thiel Fintech Ramp Smart Pay General Services Administration Eric Glyman Kyle Harrison

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RATING

7.2

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article effectively covers a timely and relevant topic, focusing on Ramp's potential involvement in a government expense management program. It benefits from credible sources and clear writing, though it would be strengthened by incorporating more diverse perspectives and deeper analysis of the implications of Ramp's involvement. While it addresses a subject of public interest, its impact and engagement potential are somewhat limited by a lack of critical viewpoints and speculative elements that require further evidence. Overall, the piece is informative but could benefit from more thorough investigation and balanced reporting to fully engage and inform readers.

Accuracy

The article provides several factual claims that are mostly verifiable, such as the involvement of Ramp in a U.S. government charge card pilot program and the details of the SmartPay program. The claim that the program is worth $700 billion and Ramp's potential contract value of $25 million are precise figures that can be checked against government and financial records. However, the assertion that Ramp has been lobbying since January, before President Trump was sworn in, requires more detailed verification. Additionally, the connection of Ramp to Elon Musk's agenda and the Department of Government Efficiency is speculative and lacks concrete evidence. The article cites Pro Publica and TechCrunch, which are reputable sources, but it does not provide direct links or access to the original reports, which would enhance factual accuracy.

Balance

The article presents a primary focus on Ramp's potential involvement in the government program, offering perspectives from the company's communications head. However, it lacks viewpoints from the government entities involved, such as the General Services Administration or the Department of Government Efficiency. The piece could be seen as somewhat favorable towards Ramp, highlighting its potential benefits without exploring possible downsides or criticisms from competitors or government officials. Including these perspectives would provide a more balanced view of the situation.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, presenting information logically and in a straightforward manner. It uses accessible language and provides enough background for readers unfamiliar with Ramp or the SmartPay program. However, the section discussing Ramp's ties to Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency could be clearer, as it introduces speculative elements without sufficient evidence or explanation, which might confuse readers.

Source quality

The article references credible and authoritative sources like TechCrunch and Pro Publica, both known for their investigative journalism and reliable reporting. These sources lend credibility to the claims made, particularly regarding financial figures and government processes. However, the article could improve by including more direct quotes or statements from government officials or independent experts to corroborate the claims about the pilot program and Ramp's lobbying efforts.

Transparency

The article provides some context for Ramp's involvement in the SmartPay program and its potential impact on government efficiency. However, it lacks detailed explanations of the methodology behind the claims, such as how Ramp's technology prevents 'billions of dollars in wasted spend.' Additionally, while it mentions Ramp's ties to influential figures, it does not fully disclose potential conflicts of interest or the basis for these connections, which could affect impartiality.