Read the pitch deck a 25-year-old startup founder used to raise $14 million for her friendship app

Alyx van der Vorm, a 25-year-old founder, is on a mission to combat loneliness among young adults with her innovative app, Clyx. The platform allows users to discover local events and attend them with friends, providing a refreshing alternative to the traditional social media experience. The concept for Clyx was born during van der Vorm's time at Harvard University. Feeling isolated while her friends were away, she realized there was a lack of tools to facilitate real-life connections. "There had to be a way to say, 'Your friend is attending this yoga class; you should join her tonight,'" van der Vorm recounted. Since its inception in 2020, Clyx has successfully launched in Miami and London, attracting 50,000 active users and 200,000 event viewers. The app is now set to expand into New York and São Paulo, fueled by a recent Series A funding round that raised $14 million, led by Blitzscaling Ventures. Clyx generates revenue through a variety of channels, including a 2% commission on in-app ticket sales, paid promotions, sponsorships, and hosting its own events. The app employs AI to curate and suggest events based on user interests, helping to foster connections among friends and new acquaintances. Van der Vorm emphasizes that the challenge isn't the lack of activities but rather the difficulty in making plans. "People need a nudge to maintain their friendships," she explained. Clyx aims not only to help users find activities but also to strengthen their relationships through shared experiences. Looking ahead, Clyx plans to venture into the dating scene with a new app tailored for Brazil, leveraging its AI capabilities for matchmaking. The app's user retention rates are significantly higher than those of competing platforms, underscoring its effectiveness in promoting in-person connections. Clyx's growth strategy includes tapping into local communities and hosting events that resonate with users, further solidifying its place in the social app landscape. As Clyx continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to addressing the loneliness epidemic, making it easier for individuals to connect in an increasingly digital world. Van der Vorm's vision for Clyx is clear: to build a robust community where friendships flourish through shared experiences and meaningful interactions.