Unfortunately, I was unsuccessful in speaking to one of my competitors throughout this process. Although, I believe that the secondary research has helped me understand a little bit more about my competition and how I can set myself apart.

I started with dating apps since they have become a very popular platform for people to find a significant other or to have a one-time encounter with someone. The market for dating apps has increased rapidly in the last few years making the industry very successful. Their revenue has also increased tremendously, scaling from 1.69B in 2015 to 3.08B in 2020. Although dating apps might not have the best reputation now a days, they keep becoming more and more popular so they are definitely a strong competitor. Many Dating apps have also incorporated a friendship side which means they are dating and friendship apps. Not many people like to use a dating app for friendship purposes but it is still a risk that they will become favourited by customers looking for a friendship.

When it comes to friendship apps I believe there is a gap being filled in the market. Now a days more and more people are relying on an app to make friends. Whether it’s one friend or multiple friends, friendship apps are becoming very popular among teenagers and young adults. Because I believe there are still some gaps that need to be filled, with my app I intend to make it easier for students to find someone they can connect with on a deeper level. So they can experience a more real connection rather than a superficial/unreliable relationship created through a dating app. I understand there is a lot of competition out there and I will have to set myself apart. I definitely intend to do this with the app features that will be provided.

Another big competitor of mine is the old school meet-ups at the institution. With clubs and social gatherings being provided, the students might feel more interested in forming connections this way rather than an app. furthermore, the purpose of the app is for students that don’t feel comfortable walking up to another student to start a conversation. It is for students that struggle in this setting and would like to form a connection with someone prior to meeting them in person. Nonetheless, this is still another great way of forming connections and finding friends in a college setting. Sadly, it is not for everyone and that is were I want to fill the gap so everyone has the opportunity to create a meaningful connection and not feel left out.

Overall, I have gained insight about the risk and opportunities this industry contains and have decided I will move forward with my idea because while there might be a lot of competition, there are also infinite opportunities. It can always be done better and more creatively, and that is what I intend to do with my app.