Linkup raises $540,000 to launch app for socialising based on common interests

Manchester-based social app that makes it easier to meet new people, Linkup has raised $540,000 in pre-seed funding. Post the new round, the app will be launched in the fourth quarter of this year to boost socialising in a digital, post-covid era.

The pre-seed raise has received backing from angel investors and high-profile individuals, including famous Youtubers, footballers and music artists such as music duo Krept & Konan.

Founded by Jack Peagam and Ben Whatson, the new social app aims to pave the way for like-minded people to forge new connections and build friendships based on common interests and hobbies. A post-pandemic society has seen people naturally struggling to get back out into the real world and build new relationships. Linkup is tackling this problem head-on by providing a unique free-to-use tool that allows users to connect with people in their area, right in the very moment, making socialising easy to arrange and enjoy.

Focusing on user experience, the app will create a seamless way for users to swipe through different types of linkups from sociable drinks to a game of tennis. Users can simply request to join a linkup, and once the creator accepts, they’ll be added to the linkup group chat, which features all the event details, including the specific location, with integrated safety features.

Co-founder Jack Peagam said: “After two years of social distancing, people are still struggling to develop new friendships, get to know new cities they’ve moved to, or even discover new hobbies.  We wanted to create something that actively supports users to get back out into the real world, go on adventures, and do more of what they love.” 

Casyo ‘Krept’ Johnson, one half of the duo Krept & Konan and an early Linkup investor said: “When I saw what Linkup was doing I was immediately interested. It's very unique and no one else is connecting people simply and quickly in this way. I truly believe what they're building is going to be a game changer. I saw how I could use this personally but also professionally as an artist. The applications are endless, hence the huge size of the opportunity.”