GreenSky, LLC (often referred to simply as GreenSky Finance) is a financial technology company that provides technology-enabled point-of-sale financing for home improvement projects and other retail goods and services. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, GreenSky operates a platform connecting merchants, consumers, and banks, streamlining the process of obtaining financing for purchases at the point of sale. The core of GreenSky’s business model revolves around partnering with merchants, primarily in the home improvement sector (e.g., roofing, windows, HVAC, solar panels), but also extending to healthcare, retail, and other areas. These merchants offer GreenSky’s financing options directly to their customers at the time of purchase. This allows consumers to finance larger expenses over time with fixed monthly payments, making home improvements and other significant purchases more accessible. For consumers, GreenSky offers a variety of loan products, often with promotional periods featuring deferred interest or low introductory rates. These loans are typically unsecured personal loans, meaning they don’t require collateral like a house or car. The availability of specific loan terms and interest rates depends on factors such as the consumer’s creditworthiness, the loan amount, and the specific financing program offered by the merchant. Applicants can typically apply for financing online or through a mobile app, receiving a credit decision in a matter of minutes. The value proposition for merchants is equally compelling. By offering GreenSky financing, merchants can increase sales by enabling customers to afford larger projects or purchases that they might otherwise postpone or forego. GreenSky also handles the credit application and approval process, relieving the merchant of the administrative burden of managing financing in-house. Furthermore, merchants typically receive prompt payment from GreenSky for the financed portion of the sale, allowing them to manage their cash flow effectively. For banks, GreenSky acts as a conduit for loan origination. The company’s platform originates and services the loans, while partner banks provide the capital. This arrangement allows banks to expand their lending portfolios without the operational complexities of managing a direct-to-consumer lending program. GreenSky’s technology platform is a critical component of its success. It provides a seamless and user-friendly experience for merchants, consumers, and banks. The platform automates many of the processes involved in loan origination, underwriting, and servicing, enabling efficient and scalable operations. However, GreenSky’s business model has also faced scrutiny. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential for high interest rates after the promotional period ends, as well as the complexity of some loan terms. Critics also point to the potential for consumers to overextend themselves financially by taking on debt for non-essential purchases. It’s important for consumers to carefully review the terms and conditions of any GreenSky loan before committing to financing, paying close attention to the interest rate, repayment schedule, and any fees that may apply. GreenSky was acquired by Goldman Sachs in 2022.