Ponte

Ponte is a mission-driven recruitment platform based in Miami that specializes in connecting work-authorized immigrants with stable, hourly jobs across the United States. Unlike traditional staffing agencies, Ponte provides direct access to vetted talent, allowing employers to hire workers directly without middlemen. The platform combines human support with AI-powered tools to streamline the hiring process for both employers and job seekers.

Ponte operates as a unique recruitment solution that differentiates itself from conventional staffing agencies by facilitating direct hiring relationships between employers and candidates. The platform specializes in hourly and front-line positions, particularly in hospitality sectors like housekeeping and kitchen staff roles. With over 70,000 registered candidates and more than 800 successful placements across 100+ employers, Ponte has established itself as a reliable bridge between underserved talent and employers struggling to fill essential positions.

The company's approach centers on accessibility and support, utilizing WhatsApp as a primary communication channel to reach candidates who typically don't engage through traditional job boards. This strategy has proven particularly effective in connecting with work-authorized immigrants who may face language barriers or unfamiliarity with conventional U.S. hiring processes. Ponte's bilingual support system ensures that candidates receive assistance throughout the entire hiring journey, from interview preparation to onboarding documentation.

Ponte's business model is success-based, with no upfront fees or subscription costs for employers. Companies only pay when they successfully hire a candidate, making it a risk-free solution for organizations looking to fill hourly positions. The platform's pre-vetting process includes a comprehensive two-step screening involving WhatsApp questionnaires and 30-minute video interviews, ensuring that only qualified and motivated candidates are presented to employers.

Founded by Harvard Business School graduates Lorenza Vélez, Stephanie Murra, and Juan Pablo Lozano—all Colombian immigrants with extensive experience in fintech and operations—Ponte brings deep understanding of both the immigrant experience and business needs. The company has received significant media attention and successfully raised $3 million in funding, demonstrating strong investor confidence in their innovative approach to solving critical labor shortages in hourly work sectors.