Backroom vs The Neighborly App

Content messenger where friends can chat privately over things they read and watch

A content messenger for friends to share and chat privately over articles, videos, tweets, or any media. Currently, these private conversations are spread out across emails, text messengers or other platforms which also provide a private message feature (e.g. Twitter DM). Backroom makes it easy to both share and consume relevant information in a private space - whether it’s a static content (an article) or a live stream (an NBA game).

We want to build a communication solution which is content-native. What we mean by that: It understands if it’s a tweet, or a live stream and makes conversations richer and more engaging. We do not undermine what machines can recommend us, but we think if the “seed” can be created by people who know us, machines can use this “seed” and do a better job of recommendation.

A local social network where users can buy and sell goods or services from people in their neighbourhoods

Neighborly connects local people with each other, helping everyone get more out of - and give more back to - their communities and neighbourhoods.

It was launched in March 2020, originally to help our local community in East London keep each other informed about COVID-19 related issues.

The app's ease of use meant it quickly developed a broader purpose - with users posting about all kinds of things, like the best dog walking spots, where to get the best coffee, and if anyone could recommend a tradesperson to carry out a particular task or service.

It was this last point that made us think - what if we could let tradespeople create profiles, take bookings, and then receive payment and reviews directly through the app? So we developed the Neighborly marketplace for just that.

Location: London, United Kingdom