GiftConnect

GiftConnect, founded in 2011 by Mark Levin, operated as a performance-based advertising network centered around its proprietary "Gift-izing" model. The company, which is now defunct, was based in New York City and aimed to transform digital advertising by embedding tangible consumer rewards directly into ad units.

The core of GiftConnect's business was a platform enabling brands and publishers to offer consumers a gift—such as free products, cash towards a purchase, or exclusive discounts—for interacting with an advertisement. This strategy served a dual market: a B2B enterprise solution for brands and publishers, and a B2C service for consumers. For brands, the platform promised measurable ROI, increased customer loyalty, and new customer acquisition. Publishers could integrate GiftConnect's suite of tools to generate additional ad revenue and access detailed campaign analytics within their existing systems.

Formerly known as AllStar Deals, the company secured a total of $5.65 million in funding over two rounds. A significant milestone was the $5.1 million Series B funding round in November 2014, led by Hubert Burda Media, a major German media group. This capital was intended to expand the company's data analytics suite and scale its marketing and sales initiatives. At its peak, GiftConnect reported a gift inventory valued at over $100 million and had executed campaigns for major brands like Under Armour, Papa John's Pizza, and Uber. Despite its initial traction and partnerships, the company has since ceased operations.

It is important to note that a separate, unrelated charitable organization also operates under the name GIFT CONNECT. Founded in 2021 by social entrepreneur Sam Beard, this entity is a public charity focused on early childhood development from birth to three. This organization is distinct from the advertising technology company founded by Mark Levin. Keywords: GiftConnect, Mark Levin, Gift-izing, performance-based advertising, ad network, digital rewards, consumer incentives, ad-tech, Hubert Burda Media, AllStar Deals, publisher tools, campaign analytics, brand advertising, consumer engagement, customer loyalty, digital gifting, defunct startup, ad platform, mobile advertising