From Isolation to Engagement: 6 Startups Changing the Way We Connect Online

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, public health concerns about loneliness and the challenges of forming meaningful social connections have intensified. In our digital-first society, marked by constant online distractions, many individuals are grappling with feelings of isolation. In response, a new wave of startups is emerging to help bridge the gap between the virtual and physical worlds, offering innovative solutions for making friends, dating, and fostering community connections.

Cliq is a UK-based social networking and community app designed to connect users with like-minded individuals. It enables users to join interest-based communities and attend local events, facilitating genuine connections. Currently, Cliq is fundraising on Seedrs and has raised over £500 so far.

Tasteit, operating in Georgia and Germany, is revolutionizing the dating app experience by using food as a focal point. Instead of swiping on potential partners, users swipe on food items, matching with others based on shared culinary preferences. The platform not only helps users connect over meals but also offers exclusive deals with local restaurants, showcasing their dishes to food enthusiasts.

Thursday, another UK startup, addresses dating app fatigue by activating its platform for just 24 hours every Thursday. Users can see potential matches for that day only, creating a less overwhelming dating experience compared to traditional apps. The startup also organizes hyper-local events on Thursdays, providing opportunities for users to meet in person. Despite raising over £2.6 million, co-founder George Rawlings faced criticism earlier this year for a now-deleted LinkedIn post that disclosed layoffs within the company.

Clicqui, based in Germany, targets Gen Z and millennial women by hosting curated dinners and social events that facilitate connections more effectively than conventional friendship apps. The startup recently launched a run club that booked out in under 20 minutes, demonstrating strong demand, with over 100 people on the waiting list. Clicqui currently operates in Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich, with plans to expand to Paris soon.

Timeleft is a French social events platform that fosters meaningful connections through dining experiences. Utilizing an algorithm, the platform pairs diners based on their personalities and meal preferences, providing a structured yet casual environment for interaction. Timeleft hosts weekly dinners in over 170 cities across 27 countries.

Play date, the UK’s first dating app for single parents, addresses the unique challenges faced by this demographic. The app allows single parents to find meaningful relationships while accommodating their lifestyles and commitments. With features like an in-app childcare solution, developed in partnership with the leading nanny and sitter app Bubble, and an invisibility feature that hides users from ex-partners, Playdate is meeting a previously untapped market. The company raised £440,000 in January this year.

These startups highlight creative solutions aimed at addressing loneliness and enhancing social connections in a post-pandemic society. By focusing on shared interests, activities, and unique experiences, they underscore the increasing acknowledgment of the importance of community and meaningful relationships in today’s digital age. Their approaches reflect a desire for authentic interactions, making it easier for individuals to find companionship and build connections that resonate deeply with their lifestyles and preferences.