In an increasingly digital world, the challenge of finding meaningful connections remains a persistent struggle, especially for college students. Enter Ditto, a novel dating startup co-founded by UC Berkeley dropouts Allen Wang and Eric Liu. Leveraging the power of artificial intelligence, Ditto aims to simplify the dating process, providing a refreshing alternative to traditional dating apps.

Ditto’s core concept revolves around the idea of facilitating real-life interactions among users rather than allowing them to remain confined within a digital space. “We’re bringing people back to in-real-life interactions,” Wang stated, emphasizing the company’s commitment to fostering genuine connections.

The startup utilizes an AI-driven approach to matchmaking by allowing users to engage directly with Ditto’s chatbot through text messaging, eliminating the need for a dedicated app. By inputting data regarding their dating preferences and type, users receive a potential match via text every Wednesday. This unique approach not only simplifies the matching process but also integrates user feedback post-date, refining the AI’s ability to pair individuals more effectively in the future.

Recently, Ditto announced a significant milestone, successfully raising $9.2 million in seed funding led by Peak XV, supported by firms like Alumni Ventures, Gradient, and Scribble Ventures. With a total of $9.5 million raised thus far, the company plans to allocate these resources primarily towards expanding its talent pool, enhancing its AI capabilities, and ramping up marketing efforts.

Founded in early 2025, Ditto faces competition from a growing array of AI-driven dating startups, such as Sitch, Known, and Amata, all of which are endeavoring to disrupt conventional matchmaking strategies. Even established dating platforms like Tinder and Bumble are exploring AI-powered solutions to rejuvenate user engagement and keep pace with emerging trends.

What sets Ditto apart is its tailored matchmaking methodology. By analyzing users’ profiles—focusing on shared interests, hobbies, humor compatibility, and values—the AI assesses whether two individuals would resonate well together. Wang notes that this intuitive process determines the likelihood of a good conversation or shared vibes, which is crucial for budding romantic connections.

The startup has identified college campuses as a lucrative target market, a strategy reminiscent of Tinder’s early growth where campus interactions significantly contributed to its success. Acknowledging the adaptability of college students to new technologies, Ditto boasts approximately 42,000 sign-ups across various California campuses. The infusion of recent funding will allow Ditto to extend its reach to additional campuses, further increasing its user base.

To entice college attendees, Ditto has devised an innovative marketing strategy by organizing parties, including lavish yacht parties across the United States. These events serve as a dual-purpose approach: they gather students and simultaneously pair them into couples during the party itself. The inaugural event took place this summer, with plans for an exciting Valentine’s Day celebration in Los Angeles, aptly timed for its campaign’s momentum.

Currently, Ditto operates on a freemium model, with Wang highlighting that growth is prioritized over immediate monetization. The startup understands that creating a robust user community will establish a foundation for future revenue opportunities. During user interviews, they are also exploring potential pricing models that may align with their audience’s preferences.

As Ditto continues to evolve and expand, its unique proposition within the crowded dating market could very well redefine how connections are made in the 21st century. With AI at its helm, Ditto is set on a path to influence the dating landscape for college students seeking love beyond the confines of swiping applications.