Meet Indian origin man, who runs Rs 26248 crore startup as CEO, married to WWE wrestler, he is...

"In every problem lies a hidden opportunity" might sound like a cliché, but it’s a mantra that has fueled many innovative business ventures. Ankur Jain, an Indian-origin tech billionaire, took this philosophy to new heights by transforming rental payments into rewards—a concept that is reshaping the US rental market.

A Wharton School graduate, Jain spotted an untapped opportunity: converting recurring rental payments into something beneficial for tenants. Traditionally, rent is a massive expense, consuming an average of 30% of people’s income, with no tangible financial returns. Jain’s venture, Bilt Rewards, introduced a groundbreaking solution by letting renters earn points on their rent payments, which can be redeemed for travel, dining, and other perks.

Bilt Rewards took a bold step by creating a credit card that allows renters to pay their landlords without incurring fees—previously thought impossible. Jain pitched the concept to property managers, promising to increase tenant retention. His approach worked, and Bilt now covers 2.5 million rental units across the US. Renters can now make their biggest monthly expense work for them, turning it into a source of rewards and benefits.

Bilt’s success is reflected in its rapid growth. In January 2024, the company secured $200 million in private funding, achieving a valuation of $3.1 billion. Jain, who holds a 36% stake, is the founder and CEO of this New York-based startup.

Jain has consistently been recognized for his entrepreneurial achievements. In 2017, the World Economic Forum named him a Young Global Leader, and Inc. magazine once called him the "Best Connected 21-Year-Old in the World." Over the years, he has featured in prestigious "30 Under 30" lists for his innovative problem-solving skills.

Before founding Bilt, Jain served as Vice President of Products at Tinder, the popular dating app, where he honed his skills in user-focused innovation.

Jain’s personal life has also drawn attention. In April 2024, he married WWE wrestler Erika Hammonds in a spectacular wedding covered by People magazine. The couple is known for their adventurous spirit and dynamic personalities.

Jain’s entrepreneurial roots trace back to his father, Naveen Jain, a former Microsoft executive and founder of InfoSpace, who briefly achieved billionaire status in 2000 during the tech boom.

Today, Ankur Jain’s net worth is estimated at $1.2 billion, according to Forbes, making him a prominent figure in the global tech and innovation ecosystem.

Jain’s vision has not only disrupted the rental market but also highlighted how rethinking everyday expenses can lead to transformative solutions.