The loneliness epidemic has far-reaching consequences. It bothers me a lot. We're more digitally connected to the world than ever yet more people feel alone than before.
Every problem presents an opportunity. How does one solve this problem? No, it’s not another social media platform.
Is there a viable business that can be built connecting people in the real world? People aren’t going out as much. - a trend exacerbated by the pandemic. Stepping out and breathing costs $50 minimum.
How does one build an organic solution that connects people IRL - I can’t stress this enough, it cannot be another digital interaction. It has to be a product that doesn’t just remind you to message but also sets up an offline interaction. It likely has to be built on an existing platform, make it easy for people to be able to do it.
House parties used to be a great way to connect, people showed up and had a great time in tiny cramped apartments. It has gotten increasingly tougher now and booking a venue costs $$$ i.e you have to spend money on tickets to cover location costs. When a guest has to spend money on it, it’s an event, not a party.
I do my part by initiating meetups for my friends, planning trips, etc. I throw one major Diwali party every year and invite many people I know (We had 71 guests in 2023)
Is the solution to build something for the extroverts that organize these things? Or is the solution to initiate more meaningful 1:1s?
I’m passionate about solving this problem but I don’t have answers. If this interests you, I’d love to chat and build together. If you’re in Toronto, coffee on me!
TLDR: How does one increase offline interactions with the following constraints?
-Can’t be a new app/website
-Takes minimal effort to use
-Minimal $ spend
Post 10/30