OPW INTERVIEW - Sep 16 - GreenLight, a brand new dating app, has just launched in San Francisco. GreenLight works pretty much like Tinder with a few interesting features including a map that allows users to see which locations have the most singles in real time, their relationship status, and how attractive they are. We have interviewed GreenLight founder Tommy Wolf.
What is your background?
BS in Mathematics from Chapman University. Currently working on my MS in Predictive Analytics in North Western's online program. I worked as a clerk for a law firm right out of college and I'm currently a Data Analyst for a real estate brokerage.
What inspired you to launch a dating app?
I wanted to work for myself, and I've been active in the online dating scene ever since graduating college. I thought by handpicking my favorite features from different dating apps, along with adding some features I wished they had, I could make a better dating app than any other that currently exists. So it seemed like a good route to take for beginning my entrepreneurial career.
How is GreenLight different from Tinder?
Greenlight has all the same basic functionality of typical dating apps, (swipe matching, messaging, profile visitors, etc), but additionally we display the locations of groups of singles that meet each user's specifications. We employ a proprietary profile rating algorithm that shows the average attractiveness of people in those groups from 1-10. We also allow each user to specify their relationship status on their profile and on the map as green (single), yellow (it's complicated), or red (taken) to give users an additional search filter. Lastly, we don't offer any premium memberships. All features are free to everyone.
Do you disclose users' location?
Yes and no. Each user is displayed as a green, yellow, or red bulb, (depending on their relationship status) on the map. The "Profiles" tab at the bottom will display a list of profiles for each bulb, but the list will not be displayed if there are 5 or fewer bulbs displayed on the map. The purpose of Greenlight is to let users see where they should go based on where groups are, not individuals. Every user also has the option to not let other users message them through the map, or not appear on the map at all if they don't want to.
How are you funded?
Greenlight has been entirely self funded to this point, but I have some meetings set up with potential investors, so hopefully that won't be the case for much longer.
What is your goal for the next 6 months?
Secure investors, hire an Internet advertising firm to begin a marketing campaign, and begin coding for additional features for when we eventually monetize.
