Social calendar and event discovery startup IRL, which focused on virtual events amid the pandemic, says that it now has 10M+ MAUs, growing 30% MoM since August — Following its $16 million Series B last fall, event discovery network IRL is launching a new website that adds …
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IRL, which stands for “In Real Life,” is a social calendar and event discovery startup that aims to help people find and attend events that match their interests. The company was founded in 2017 by Abraham Shafi and Scott Banister, and has since raised $11 million in funding.
IRL’s app allows users to browse events happening in their area, as well as create and manage their own events. The app also offers features such as personalized recommendations based on users’ interests and social connections, as well as tools for organizing group events.
One of the unique aspects of IRL is its focus on “real” events, rather than online or virtual events. The app encourages users to get out and experience new things in their community, whether it’s attending a concert, trying a new restaurant, or participating in a local charity event.
IRL’s approach to event discovery is also designed to be more social and interactive than traditional event calendars. Users can connect with friends and other attendees through the app, RSVP to events, and even create custom groups for organizing events with specific people.
The company has seen significant growth since its launch, with over 7 million registered users and partnerships with major event organizers such as Live Nation and Ticketmaster. IRL has also received positive reviews from users and tech media outlets, citing its user-friendly interface, personalized recommendations, and emphasis on real-life social connections.
However, IRL is not without its challenges. The event discovery space is highly competitive, with established players such as Eventbrite and Meetup, as well as newer startups like Fever and DoStuff. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the events industry and forced many event organizers to pivot to virtual events, which may impact IRL’s focus on in-person events.
Despite these challenges, IRL’s focus on real-life events and social connections gives it a unique position in the event discovery market. With continued innovation and adaptation to changing circumstances, IRL has the potential to become a go-to app for discovering and attending events in real life.
