Raya

Raya operates as a private, membership-based platform designed for individuals in creative industries to connect for dating, professional networking, and friendship. The company was founded in 2014 by Daniel Gendelman, who conceived the idea while studying in Israel, and the app officially launched in February 2015. Gendelman aimed to solve a specific problem for a niche group of people, particularly those in creative fields who found it challenging to connect on mainstream dating apps. He maintained his anonymity until a 2018 interview, three years after the app went live.

The business model is centered on exclusivity and privacy, operating on a subscription-only basis without a free trial option. Revenue is generated through monthly membership fees, with options for standard and premium tiers, as well as potential income from sponsored, member-only events. The app's marketing relies entirely on word-of-mouth, leveraging the influence of its high-profile user base. This strategy has cultivated an aura of desirability, resulting in a reported waitlist of over 100,000 applicants.

Raya's key differentiator is its rigorous and opaque application process. Prospective members are evaluated by an anonymous global committee based on their work, connections to the existing community, and overall creative contribution. A referral from at least one current member is a critical factor in the application. The platform has a low acceptance rate, estimated at around 8%, making it more selective than some Ivy League business schools. This vetting process is designed to create a trusted and well-curated community of artists, actors, executives, and other influential figures.

The service, available exclusively on iOS devices, offers features that extend beyond typical dating apps. User profiles are presented as a photo montage set to a chosen song and must be linked to an Instagram account. Beyond standard matching and messaging, Raya includes a map feature to find members nearby and a directory to search for users by specific filters like interests or profession, facilitating professional networking and collaborations. Privacy is paramount; screenshotting profiles is strictly forbidden and can lead to removal from the platform, a rule that fosters a sense of security for its high-profile clientele.

Keywords: exclusive dating app, membership community, professional networking, creative industries, Daniel Gendelman, private social network, celebrity dating, invite-only app, subscription model, iOS application, social discovery, high-profile connections, application-based, online community, member directory, privacy-focused, word-of-mouth growth, Los Angeles startup