Kerry Washington has recently invested her influence and money into Spill, a Black-owned social platform created by Alphonzo Terrell, a former Twitter employee. This support from the Emmy-winning actress has brought Spill into the spotlight, marking its growing success as a Twitter alternative.
Spill has seen impressive growth since Washington’s involvement, including a 400% increase in ad spending and projections of $1 million in revenue.
Kerry Washington’s Investment Sparks Spill’s Growth
Kerry Washington’s investment goes beyond financial support. She actively engages with the platform, hosting virtual “Tea Parties,” which are live video chats that touch on topics like voter registration. Her commitment shows how invested she is in the platform’s mission, which aims to prioritize marginalized groups, especially Black, Brown, and LGBTQIA communities.
Washington has a strong track record of backing innovative startups. She has invested in companies like Byte and Omaze in the past. However, her involvement with Spill reflects her passion for digital spaces that offer support and representation for underrepresented communities. As Alphonzo Terrell, Spill’s founder, shared, “She’s incredibly accessible and knowledgeable, especially around these topics.”
Spill’s Impact on Black-Owned Digital Spaces
Since its launch, Spill has aimed to create a welcoming space for Black and marginalized voices. This mission has resonated with many users. Spill’s community-centric features, such as Spades—a popular card game often played at Black family gatherings—encourage social interactions that keep users engaged for over 30 minutes on average.
Spill’s success isn’t just measured by user retention. It’s becoming a notable platform in the advertising world, especially in multicultural marketing. With an increasing ad spend per campaign and brands returning for multiple campaigns, Spill is quickly carving out a niche in the $45 billion multicultural ad industry in the United States. As Terrell noted, “Multicultural ad spending has increased 5-10% per year over the last seven years.”
Social Media That Prioritizes Marginalized Communities
One of Spill’s most distinguishing features is its dedication to addressing social justice issues. The platform became a significant space for discussions after the execution of Marcellus Williams, a Black man whose death row case sparked widespread outrage. Terrell highlighted how Spill serves as a support system for communities during such painful times, emphasizing that “you don’t carry this stuff alone.”
Washington’s investment comes at a pivotal time. By aligning herself with a platform that fosters connection and community for marginalized groups, she is using her platform to create real change in the digital space. Her involvement not only boosts Spill’s growth but also ensures that it continues to stand as a vital voice for those who are often left unheard.
