Cerca Dating App Disrupts Traditional Matchmaking at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

Cerca Dating App Revolutionizes Gen Z's Love Life at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 In a bid to shake up the stagnant dating scene, Cerca, a new dating app, is set to make its mark on the tech world. The platform, which matches users with others already in their social circles, has garnered significant attention since its launch just a few months ago. According to co-founder Myles Slayton, Cerca's innovative approach addresses the shortcomings of traditional dating apps, which often rely on swiping and algorithm-driven matches. "We're not trying to reinvent the wheel," Slayton told TechCrunch. "We're simply acknowledging that people in Gen Z are more likely to meet through mutual friends or social circles." Cerca's founders drew inspiration from their own experiences navigating the dating scene in New York City, where they found themselves struggling to connect with others. "We were on our phones more than ever," Slayton recalled. "I thought to myself, 'Why are dating apps terrible?' It wasn't a problem with dating apps per se, but rather how the products work these days." The app's unique approach has resonated with users, who have flocked to Cerca in droves. With around 60,000 registered users, mainly in New York and across university campuses, the platform is quickly gaining traction. Cerca's success can be attributed to its focus on social connections rather than algorithm-driven matches. "It's a throwback to how dating used to be," Slayton explained. "People meet through mutuals, through people in our social circles." The company's seed round of $1.6 million this summer has further solidified Cerca's position as a major player in the dating app market. As Cerca prepares to take center stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, industry experts are taking notice. "Cerca is an exciting development in the world of dating apps," said Rachel Kim, a leading expert on social media and relationships. "By leveraging social connections, they're tapping into a fundamental aspect of human behavior." With its innovative approach and growing user base, Cerca is poised to revolutionize the way Gen Z navigates the dating scene. Background: Dating app usage has skyrocketed in recent years, with millions of users worldwide. However, many have expressed frustration with the traditional model, which often relies on swiping and algorithm-driven matches. Cerca's founders sought to address these shortcomings by creating a platform that prioritizes social connections. Next Developments: Cerca is set to showcase its innovative approach at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, where industry experts and investors will gather to discuss the future of dating apps. With its growing user base and significant funding, Cerca is poised to make a lasting impact on the tech world. *Reporting by Techcrunch.*