Ramp introduces AI model routing service to compete in AI inference market

Ramp, a corporate expense management platform, has launched its own AI model routing service called Router, aiming to compete with companies like Stripe in the AI inference space. The service allows users and businesses to switch between various large language models via an API, with Ramp having used a similar internal tool for its own AI needs over the past three years. Router is currently available only in the United States and is free to use for the remainder of 2026, though users will still be charged for AI model inference costs. It comes with a $26 credit launch offer, and the company has not disclosed pricing for next year. The service offers access to models from OpenAI, Anthropic, DeepSeek, Moonshot, Minimax, Nvidia, xAI, and Z.ai, along with several routing strategies to help customers direct AI requests based on preferences. Ramp also highlighted its opt-out data retention policy, which will store model inputs, outputs, and tool calls for one year by default, with personally identifiable information removed before use. Entering the model routing business provides Ramp with opportunities to tap into the growing AI inference market and integrate its service with existing products like AI token usage monitoring. If successful, Ramp could also build long-term relationships with AI labs and inference providers, potentially expanding its customer base and offering new entry points for its expense management solutions. The company raised $750 million at a $44 billion valuation in June. Ramp’s move into AI model routing follows recent developments in the industry, including Stripe’s reported $7 billion acquisition of OpenRouter.