# Startup Networking Apps Lunchcruit Builds Professional Connections Through Sit-Down Meals By Meghan Young | Published 2015-03-11 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/startup-networking References: [psfk](http://www.psfk.com/2015/03/lunchcruit-free-lunch-startups-networking.html) & [lunchcruit](https://lunchcruit.com) Lunchcruit is the latest '[dating app](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/frome-dating-app)' that focuses specifically on startup networking. It encourages people to make more professional connections over a free meal -- yes, free. Working similarly to Ok Cupid and Tinder, the [startup networking app](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/global-startup-ecosystem) lets people pick their field of expertise and city to better match them up with companies of interest. From there, a representative from the company will decide if the person is something they're interested in, setting them up with a free lunch. Startup networking is made easier and more fun through Lunchcruit, which essentially positions itself against other recruiting opportunities such on [LinkedIn](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yuppie). The company reveals, “With pricing, we’re still experimenting. $399 a month for quality candidates isn’t that far fetched when you consider a single LinkedIn job posting costs $495. As long as we can guarantee quality and a constant stream of talent it’s actually a great deal." ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.9/10 - Popularity: 54% | Activity: 84% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Mobile](https://www.trendhunter.com/mobile) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Startup Networking Apps:** Lunchcruit introduces a new way for professionals to network with startups. - **Professional Connections:** Lunchcruit emphasizes the importance of making meaningful professional connections. - **Free Meal Networking:** Lunchcruit offers a unique approach to networking by providing free sit-down meals. ### Where This Applies - **Recruiting:** Lunchcruit disrupts the traditional recruiting industry by offering a more personalized and enjoyable experience. - **Social Networking:** Lunchcruit taps into the social networking industry by connecting professionals through a platform similar to dating apps. - **Tech Startups:** Lunchcruit caters specifically to the needs of tech startups, providing them with a fresh way to attract talent. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Curated Professional Dating Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/luxy-dating-service.md) - [Founder Networking Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-startup-club.md) - [Pre-Launch B2B Startup Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/prelaunch-b2b-startup.md) - [Professional-Focused Dating Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lady-matchmaker.md) - [Young Professional Community Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yuppie.md) - [Smart Networking Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-networking1.md) - [Startup Networking Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/next-play.md) - [Networking Platform In-App Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/inapp-games.md) - [Chinese Career Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/career-app.md)