Emmy-winner Kerry Washington is putting her money where her mouth is. The “Scandal” star has invested in Spill, a rising social media platform. Spill is giving Twitter a run for its money and was started by a former Twitter employee.
Washington isn’t just throwing cash at Spill. She’s actively using the platform to connect with fans. She’s hosted “Tea Parties” – Spill’s version of live video chats – to talk about important topics like voter registration.
“In a digital world where marginalized groups, especially Black, Brown, and LGBTQIA folks, rarely feel prioritized, Spill stands out,” Washington said. “I’m proud to be part of this community as both a user and an investor.”
Black-Owned Social Media Platform Sees Explosive Growth
Spill is celebrating its second birthday with some impressive numbers. The platform has seen a 400% jump in average ad spend per campaign. What’s more, Spill is on track to bring in over one million dollars in yearly revenue next year.
Alphonzo Terrell, Spill’s founder, is thrilled with the platform’s success. He points to features like the popular Spades game as key to keeping users engaged. People are now spending over 30 minutes on the app to finish games.
“It’s partner-based, so it’s inherently very social,” Terrell explained. “This was a suggestion from the community because it’s always played at Black barbecues and things like that, and family gatherings.”
Celebrity Investor Brings Star Power and Support
Washington isn’t new to investing in startups. She’s backed other companies like Byte, Omaze, and Community. But with Spill, she’s taking a hands-on approach.
Terrell praised Washington’s involvement: “She’s incredibly accessible and knowledgeable, especially around these topics and is not scared in any way, shape, or form about really engaging with people directly.”
This level of engagement fits perfectly with Spill’s mission. Terrell added, “I think it really does represent the kind of environment we want to cultivate on Spill … We’re all human here, too. Let’s connect.”
Spill Provides a Voice for Marginalized Communities
Spill isn’t just about making money. It’s committed to being a platform where marginalized voices can be heard. This was clear when users recently came together to mourn Marcellus Williams, a Black man executed after spending over 20 years on death row.
Terrell reflected on the importance of community in times like these. “The execution yesterday … really underscored the need for just like, community, like people around you to support you so that you’re not isolated,” he said. “You don’t carry this stuff alone. I think everybody needs that wherever you can find it.”
