Frequently Asked Questions
About Project Bridget
Why is there a need for Bridget?
We need better tools for finding and maintaining “in real life” social connections. Consider the following data:
- One in three Americans self-report that they feel chronically lonely, with the rates even higher among young adults ages 18-24 (58%) and single people (49%) (Project Bridget National Survey, 2024)
- Fewer than half of Gen Z feel connected to their fellow Americans and local communities (Pew Research Center, 2024)
- 72% of Gen Z say they feel more comfortable online than in person (Morning Consult, 2023)
Why is social connection important?
- Longer lifespans and improved outcomes across more than 30 mental and physical health measures
- Greater economic mobility
- Larger pool of romantic prospects
- Increased civic participation and trust
The research shows that social disconnection isn’t just a personal burden–its occurrence on a mass scale has major implications for public health, economic productivity, and civic functioning. To explore more of this research, contact us for a copy of Project Bridget’s white paper.
How is Bridget different from existing apps?
- Mission-driven—success is increasing users’ social connectedness, not maximizing attention or revenue
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Offline-first—encourages and enables real-world meetups
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Robust, nuanced psychometric matching—uses AI and behavioral science to go deeper than demographics and hobbies
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Personalized assistance—offers relationship-specific tips on how to nourish relationships once they start
- Automated group creation—uses AI to bring together groups of people based on their shared social intents
How much demand is there for Bridget?
A lot! According to our 2024 survey of +500 people across the U.S.:
- Nearly half—48%—said they were likely or very likely to use Bridget, translating to a potential user population of 129 million
- Interest levels are relatively higher among those who self-report feeling lonely (61%), and people who are ages 25-44 (59%), ethnic minorities (52%), and women (51%)
Which stage of development is Project Bridget in?
We’re in the pre-launch phase. We’re building what we call a “minimum lovable product”—a thoughtfully designed app that helps people find and nurture meaningful connections. We’re also completing the legal steps to incorporate as a nonprofit and engaging early supporters to help bring Bridget to life.
When is Project Bridget launching?
We don’t have a fixed launch date yet. Your engagement helps us to get there faster. Show your support by signing up for early access. If our vision speaks to you, please consider making a donation.
Donations & Impact
Why should I donate to Project Bridget?
Unlike single-issue donations, Project Bridget is a one-stop catalyst for benefits across numerous areas. Your donation not only helps us tackle social disconnection—recent research has found that social connection boosts people’s economic, romantic and family building prospects, civic engagement, and health across dozens of measures. Request our white paper via Contact Us for a deep dive into the research informing Project Bridget.
How would Project Bridget use my donation?
Right now, donations fund three key areas:
- Legal formation: Incorporating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
- Product development: Building our first usable, lovable version of the Bridget app
- User acquisition: Reaching people who need Bridget the most
Is my donation tax deductible?
How would I know my donation’s impact?
We share regular updates with all donors. In the early stages, you’ll hear about our progress toward launch. After launch, we’ll provide impact reports with metrics like:
- Users acquired and retained
- “In real life” connections made
- Changes in users’ self-reported social connection and well-being
- Users’ match quality scores
How does Project Bridget raise money?
Volunteering
Why should I volunteer with Project Bridget?
If you care about finding ways to increase mutual understanding and civic trust, or using tech for good, volunteering with Bridget is a meaningful way to contribute. You’ll be part of a passionate, forward-thinking team applying technology to one of today’s most urgent social needs. Contact us to discuss how we might work together.
How much of a time commitment is volunteering with Project Bridget?
We’re flexible! Some volunteers contribute just a few hours per month; others take on bigger projects. Let us know your skills and availability, and we’ll find the right fit.
Still have questions?
Please get in touch, we’d love to hear from you.
