In 2025, Nearby Nearby is set to amplify its impact and capabilities, focusing on how we can better serve rural communities—not just as a local discovery platform connecting residents, visitors, and businesses through our patent-pending One Search feature, but as the first platform purpose-built for rural America. Our goal is to go beyond discovery, connecting rural entrepreneurs and businesses with the entrepreneurial ecosystems and resources that already exist to support them, acting as a bridge to link everyone together.

This means more than just helping people find what’s nearby—it’s about unlocking opportunities that drive real growth and sustainability. Whether it’s accessing funding opportunities, mentorship, training, or simply making local businesses and events more discoverable, Nearby Nearby is creating a solution that strengthens rural economies and fosters a deeper sense of community pride.

What’s Ahead

• Expanding the Nearby Nearby Local Discovery Platform: We’re working to provide significant economic impact for the communities we serve, especially in Western North Carolina, helping them recover tourism dollars faster and connect with visitors more easily. By leveraging community-sourced information, Nearby Nearby eliminates the stress of trip planning with accurate, up-to-date local details—ensuring travelers know what’s open, what’s available, and how to experience the area, all in one simple search.

• Establishing the Rural Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Platform: We’re building a framework to bridge the gap between rural entrepreneurs, small businesses, and the broader support networks available to them. In 2025, we’ll be deepening our understanding of the current entrepreneurial ecosystems and identifying gaps to better serve rural communities and create stronger connections.

• Laying the Groundwork for the First Major Rural EDA Regional Tech Hub: With guidance and encouragement from the NC Department of Commerce, Nearby Nearby is spearheading efforts to connect with future rural partners and establish a groundbreaking initiative that will serve as a blueprint for long-term rural economic growth in technology and innovation. If you’re interested in partnering with us on this effort, we’d love to connect.

• Providing Critical Data for Disaster Response Efforts: As Nearby Nearby expands, our location data points—including firehouses, police stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations—will become a pivotal resource during national disasters. With real-time, verified local information, relief efforts can be directed more efficiently, ensuring that aid reaches the right places when it matters most.

Exciting Programs & Opportunities in 2025:

We’re proud to be participating in the upcoming Campbell University Camel Accelerator and the Milestone Circles Program at the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center, which will provide invaluable resources and mentorship to help accelerate our growth and impact.

Additionally, we’re honored to be nominated for the SBTDC’s Summer 2025 Tech Commercialization Internship Program, and we’re eagerly awaiting the announcement on whether we receive the NC IDEA Ecosystem Grant, which would further our mission of connecting and empowering rural communities.

How You Can Be Part of the Journey

Nearby Nearby thrives when rural communities, businesses, and organizations come together. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Entrepreneurs & Business Owners: Get listed on Nearby Nearby gain visibility and connect with your local community. We will be launching in Chatham and Randolph County first.

• Community Members: Help spread the word about Nearby Nearby and share the platform with your network to ensure your community is fully represented.

• Local Governments & Economic Development Organizations: Partner with us to amplify local business visibility, drive tourism, and support rural economic growth.

• Nonprofits Aligned with Our Mission: We are actively seeking nonprofit partners to collaborate on grant opportunities that align with our shared goals of strengthening rural communities and fostering entrepreneurial success. If your organization focuses on rural economic development, entrepreneurship, or community engagement, let’s connect.

Looking Ahead

Our vision remains clear: to create a trusted platform that supports local economies, fosters community pride, and brings people together. As we move forward, we’re committed to making Nearby Nearby the go-to resource for rural America—empowering communities and ensuring they have the visibility and opportunities they need to flourish.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

Let’s continue building a stronger rural America, together.

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