In today’s digital age, information is just a click away and search engines have become an integral part of our daily lives. However, for many women, the experience of seeking answers to personal or taboo questions online has often been marred by “search engine gender bias,” leading to unsatisfactory results dominated by default male perspectives. Diem, a groundbreaking female-founded startup, is on a mission to revolutionize this space and create a more inclusive online environment.
Diem recognizes the challenges women face when seeking information on sensitive topics like sexual health, relationships, mental health, and body positivity. The startup aims to provide a safe space through its social search engine, where users can share personal stories and ask questions openly, as if engaging in a giant group chat with people worldwide.
Available as a web app and on iOS and Android devices, Diem offers a platform for discussions that users might typically reserve for their closest friends. The option to ask questions anonymously adds an extra layer of comfort, encouraging candid conversations on subjects such as leaving toxic relationships, managing period symptoms, and navigating issues related to body image.
Diem goes beyond typical search engines by integrating an AI component that curates answers from reputable sources on the internet. Leveraging technologies like ChatGPT and user-contributed content, Diem claims to present information through “a feminine lens.” This approach ensures that the platform not only offers accurate information but also does so in a way that resonates with the experiences and perspectives of women.
Currently boasting over 40,000 users, Diem continues to grow its user base through innovative features and community engagement. The “Spaces” feature, set to officially launch soon, aims to make members feel more comfortable sharing important topics and common interests.
Diem has plans to introduce two more features, “Recommended Reading,” an AI-powered recommendation feature for trending news articles, and an event feature for in-person community gatherings. The company is also working on a monetization feature to reward users for their valuable content contributions.
Diem was co-founded by Emma Bates (CEO) and Divia Singh (COO), both of whom previously worked at the DTC travel brand Away. The idea for Diem originated when Bates faced challenges finding relatable information about the morning-after pill. The startup has raised $3.7 million in total, with Stellation Capital leading its most recent seed round, along with support from Acrew Capital, Flybridge, Techstars, XFactor Ventures, and notable angel investors.
In an interview with TechCrunch, Bates emphasized the need for a platform that captures real-world information sharing, making it a valuable resource for everyone. Diem’s journey reflects a commitment to empowering women and nonbinary individuals by reshaping online conversations and fostering a sense of community in the digital space. As Diem continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the positive impact that female-founded startups can have on redefining the online landscape.
Image credit: Diem
