Belong, a UAE social App raises $1.5 Million in Pre-series funding

Belong, a social connectivity app originating from the UAE and previously branded ASKWHO has successfully garnered $1.5 million during its recent pre-Series A fundraising. This latest achievement boosts the company's overall capital to $3.5 million.

Michael Askew and Matthew Gaziano initiated Belong in 2019, envisioning it as a platform to bridge individuals within urban landscapes. The fresh funds are slated to refine the app's capabilities and propel its outreach in pivotal locations such as Dubai, San Francisco, and New York.

Mike Askew, co-founder and CEO of Belong, shared with StartupScene, "Originating from Dubai, Belong addresses the prevalent challenge of solitude. Our metrics validate that our app resonates strongly both in our hometown and in the established US markets. We remain indebted to our investors, our dedicated team at Belong, and our ever-increasing user community for endorsing our vision."

By centering on city-specific communities, Belong streamlines the journey of forging new connections. The recent capital infusion will steer the firm towards swifter growth, reinforce its footprint in global cities, and broaden its horizons within the US.
Quoting a Cigna survey, Askew stated, "A staggering 58% of American adults, which is approximately 192 million individuals, express feelings of isolation. Addressing this challenge is our priority. We're enthused to scale our initiative throughout the US, aiming to counteract the worldwide sentiment of loneliness."
Belong's strategy, encompassing a subscription-based model complemented by a potent referral mechanism, has been met with significant traction. The platform champions social bonding, allowing users to forge ties through local forums, live gatherings, and a dedicated tool for discovering like-minded individuals.