ConnexPay: Redefining Payment Solutions Through Innovation and Resilience

When Robert Kaufman launched ConnexPay in 2017, he had one mission: to “smash together” the traditionally siloed systems of making and accepting payments, revolutionizing the payment ecosystem for businesses worldwide. Headquartered in Florida, ConnexPay has since grown into a trailblazing enterprise that stands out for its cutting-edge approach, customer-centric solutions, and a company culture that fosters excellence and loyalty.

The Journey behind ConnexPay

Before founding ConnexPay, Kaufman spent 20 years at U.S. Bank, most notably leading its Payments division. During this time, Kaufman observed inefficiencies in the payment ecosystem that created barriers for businesses, especially those handling both incoming and outgoing payments. Inspired by a conversation with a client who highlighted these challenges, Kaufman saw an opportunity to develop a unified payment solution that would bridge the gap between receiving and issuing payments.

In 2017, Kaufman left the corporate world, crediting his wife for encouraging him to take the leap despite the risks involved. “She told me, ‘You’re not happy anymore. You need to do it,’” Kaufman shared. With her support, Kaufman began building ConnexPay, launching its first transactions in 2019 after a year and a half of developing the technology.

A Unique Value Proposition

ConnexPay is a pioneer in integrating payment acceptance and issuance into a single, seamless platform. While most payment providers treat these functions as separate entities, ConnexPay’s patented technology connects the two, offering businesses unprecedented efficiency and cost savings. Kaufman explained, “There’s nobody in the world that I could point to with a similar solution.”

Initially focusing on the travel industry, ConnexPay quickly gained traction with travel agencies and tour operators, whose operations rely on efficient payment processing. Despite challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, the company diversified its client base, expanding into e-commerce, media, and insurance payments. By 2022, ConnexPay had rebounded and achieved exponential growth, with projected revenues of $250 million for 2024.

A People-First Culture

ConnexPay’s impressive growth is matched by its strong emphasis on culture and team cohesion. With over 100 employees, the company prioritizes hiring for character and values referrals from existing employees. Kaufman implemented an employee referral program that offered $10,000 bonuses, an approach that yielded excellent results while fostering a sense of ownership among team members.

Every employee at ConnexPay receives stock in the company, reinforcing a culture of transparency and shared success. Kaufman remarked, “We share everything with our employees—from revenues to profits. It’s a very open culture, and I’m incredibly proud of that.”

Facing Challenges and Looking Ahead

The pandemic presented significant obstacles, especially as the company’s early success was deeply tied to the travel industry. ConnexPay used this period to strengthen its technology and diversify its offerings, emerging stronger in 2022. Today, its growth strategy rests on three pillars: deepening its footprint in travel, expanding into new verticals such as media and insurance payments, and scaling its international presence.

Looking ahead, Kaufman is clear about the company’s trajectory. While ConnexPay aims to continue its rapid growth, Kaufman is candid about the ultimate goal of selling the company to a larger entity. “I’m upfront with our team about our plans,” he said. “When that day comes, it will be because of the incredible work we’ve done together.”

The GrowFL Recognition

Being selected as a GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch honoree is a meaningful achievement for ConnexPay. For Kaufman, the recognition validates the company’s innovative approach and contributions to Florida’s economic landscape. “This is another feather in the cap that supports our sales efforts and showcases us as one of the fastest-growing companies in the state,” Kaufman said.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Kaufman offers two key pieces of advice for those embarking on entrepreneurial journeys. First, he stresses the importance of adaptability, saying, “Expect the unexpected. The one certainty about a business plan is that it’s wrong, but the process of planning is invaluable.” Second, he underscores the value of building a strong team: “Surround yourself with people who challenge you and think differently. Your team is your greatest asset.”

Looking Ahead to Continued Success

As ConnexPay continues its impressive growth trajectory, Robert Kaufman remains focused on innovation, customer satisfaction, and strategic expansion. With plans to deepen its presence in travel, diversify into new verticals like media and insurance, and scale internationally, the company is well-positioned to shape the future of payment technology. Kaufman’s leadership philosophy—grounded in transparency, employee ownership, and sustainable growth—ensures that ConnexPay’s culture remains as strong as its technological advancements. With a proven track record of resilience and innovation, ConnexPay is set to leave a lasting impact on the global payments ecosystem while continuing to uphold its commitment to excellence and client-focused solutions.