Grade Overview
Pro stress-test →Grade is an API for performance-based payroll that enables companies to pay AI agents and contractors based on results—tasks completed, targets hit, and work delivered. The platform handles compliance, tax reporting, and global payouts across over 190 countries, primarily serving creators and contractors in the digital economy.
Strategic Profile
Pro stress-test →Grade positions itself as similar to Deel or Gusto, but optimized for outcome-based payouts rather than hourly work. The company has demonstrated real early traction with live customers, $1M+ processed, 790+ creators paid, and named customer logos including Valid, Astra AI, Growth Gorilla, and Hayai Learn. As of February 2026, Grade processed $380k+ in creator payouts over 30 days with 120% month-over-month growth.
Competitive Landscape
Pro stress-test →Direct competitors include Tipalti, Trolley (formerly Payment Rails), Lumanu, and Deel for international contractor payments, while PayPal and Stripe mass payouts APIs undercut on price. Grade's top competitors also include Razorpay and Yonder. Grade is competing on performance-based payout rules and simplified creator onboarding but faces well-capitalized incumbent platforms.
Industry Context
Grade operates in Creator and contractor payments platforms.
Key facts
Founded: 2025 · Headquarters: San Francisco, US