Hoplr

Founded in 2015 by software developer Jennick Scheerlinck and product designer Jonas Heirwegh, Hoplr is a private social network bounded by geography. Unlike broad social platforms, Hoplr is designed for hyperlocal interaction: neighbours exchange goods and services, find babysitters, share local news, report neighbourhood issues, and organize community events within a defined residential area.

The platform serves two distinct user groups. Residents use it for community connection and mutual aid. Local governments use it as a civic engagement channel, communicating with residents at the neighbourhood level and collecting local feedback. This institutional revenue stream gives Hoplr a more stable business model than pure consumer social networks. Hoplr does not carry advertising on the platform.

Initial capital came from a first round with QuaeroQ CVBA (the long-term investment fund of Matexi Group) in 2016. In 2018, Belfius also acquired a minority stake. Total funding is approximately EUR 6M, with investors including Scaleup Flanders, CAREvolution, Birdhouse Ventures, Belfius Bank, and Matexi. Hoplr was recognized in the Deloitte Technology Fast50 2024 with 511% growth.