AI matchmaking startup Sitch has secured $6.7 million in pre-seed and seed funding as it expands its pay-per-setup dating service to tens of thousands of users across New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Launched in December 2024, the app was co-founded by former Bumble India launch team member Nandini Mullaji and ex-Snapchat and Microsoft executive Chad DePue.
Sitch differentiates itself from swipe-based dating apps by acting as a personal AI-powered matchmaker. Users begin by answering a series of in-depth questions – ranging from hobbies to past relationship patterns – via a chatbot trained on Mullaji’s matchmaking approach, even using her voice. The AI then identifies compatible partners and makes introductions in group chats once mutual interest is confirmed.
Sitch reports thousands of dates have already been arranged, with many leading to multiple meetups. The company plans to expand to Chicago and Austin by the end of 2025, with a goal of global availability by 2030. Mullaji says the mission is to “democratize access to having a matchmaker to help you make life’s most important decision.”
The platform charges for successful introductions, with setup packs priced between $90 and $160. Mullaji says the model ensures users are more committed to meeting in person, in contrast to the high proportion of casual browsers found on other dating apps. All new accounts undergo manual review, including a selfie verification step, to maintain quality.
While the AI occasionally delivers incorrect or overly creative advice, Mullaji notes these issues are being addressed. She adds that users tend to be more candid with an AI than with a human matchmaker, helping the system make more accurate pairings.
