0With over 295 million people in the U.S. actively using social media (Source), the U.S. Social Networking industry, valued at $62.5 billion (in 2021), is expected to grow by 17.1% in 2021 alone (Source).
TruSo has an experienced leadership team with over 50+ years of combined industry experience, as well as high-profile individual spokespersons including, NFL Hall of Famer Terrell Owens, National Radio Personality Sway Calloway, Actor Kareem Grimes and 2x USA Olympian Miki Barber.
TruSo has over 2,000 individuals on the waitlist ready to participate in the TruSo beta, as well as over 200 individuals eager to invest.
Overview
*The above graphic contains images of our beta app which is currently not available for general use.
In an era where more and more communication is happening online, we believe individuals need a meaningful alternative to audio-only and popularity-based platforms. We developed a platform that promotes empowering, real conversation, collaboration and community-building for all individuals, both locally and globally. We built TruSo to embrace all mobile phone users, as well as the 360 million individuals worldwide who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing (Source). We are currently in the pre-revenue phase of our business. Our application is currently in development in beta mode and is not available to the greater public.
THE PROBLEM
Research shows that social media algorithms skew towards negativity--which results in certain groups and individuals feeling marginalized and/or ostracized (Source).
Data shows that the regular use of social media platforms contribute to poor self-image and depression among young people, as well as higher levels of loneliness, envy, anxiety and narcissism in adults ages 28-73. (Source)
Social media platforms often require individuals to have thousands of followers and/or views in order to monetize. (Source)
Individual content creators’ content is often utilized without the creator receiving credit or compensation (Source)
We believe individuals worldwide need a social networking space that is truly empowering, inclusive and rewarding.
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THE SOLUTION
*The above graphic contains images of our beta app which is currently not available for general use.
TruSo has created a social networking app that is truly social, inclusive and empowering for all individuals.
As a video-based app, TruSo creates a social environment that is as close to face-to-face as one can get—which psychologists say provides “a great way to feel more emotionally connected to other people and creates meaningful interactions.”
Unlike audio-only based applications, TruSo was built from the ground up to embrace all mobile phone users, as well as the over 360 million individuals worldwide who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
TruSo is a social networking platform created to empower individuals both professionally and financially with a built-in monetization structure and in-app resource library with over 100 documents and forms for entrepreneurs. One doesn’t need thousands of followers to monetize on TruSo. Community+ members can monetize simply by inviting others who decide to subscribe to the platform.
Truly Social, TruSo is an app-based extension of the barbershop and beauty shop where significant conversation occurs in communities around the world, founded by individuals who understand the nuances of niche communities. TruSo also includes built-in chat, allowing individuals to directly connect with other individuals without leaving the platform.
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We are built on a foundation of connecting individuals within the African Diaspora and cultures worldwide through empowering conversation, collaboration, and community building. We have a business model similar to other social media platforms where we charge for ad space and offer free and paid subscriptions.
OUR TRACTION
We are ecstatic to announce that TruSo has a fully functioning video-based social networking application. Moreover, we have also secured partnerships with high-profile spokespersons such as NFL Hall of Famer Terrell Owens, National Media Personality Sway Calloway, Actor Kareem Grimes and 2x USA Olympian Miki Barber. The combined network of these influencers tops 100 million people.
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As a result of TruSo’s early media traction, TruSo has a waitlist of over 2,000 individuals ready to participate in the TruSo beta. In fact, as a result of Truso’s first national radio interview, TruSo attracted over 200 interested investors. TruSo has also benefited from positive press mentions from popular outlets such as AfroTech, Sway In the Morning radio show, and David Meltzer’s Office Hours.
THE MARKET
TruSo is the barbershop, beauty shop and brainchild of the Black community. We have drawn upon this cultural inspiration to create an online space to continue and advance the conversations that begin in these familiar spaces. The founder of TruSo recognizes the unique and profound impact Black culture and content has had on the world throughout generations. We aim to highlight and maximize that impact as a template for a truly inclusive social media platform.
Our goal is to be the premiere video-based social networking platform with over 10 million users — connecting individuals within the African Diaspora and cultures worldwide, for positive conversation, collaboration and community-building—both socially and financially. The real impact of TruSo’s vision will be felt and heard by underserved communities around the world in the form of charity, social justice and the tens of thousands of individuals who receive the gift of hearing, in the form of hearing aids, from TruSo’s foundation.
WHY INVEST
We want to take the community, comradery, and support that the black community gets from local gathering spots like the barbershop and beauty shop, and create a platform that empowers everyone who needs a voice. TruSo is about more than connecting people. TruSo is about building a community, helping people achieve their dreams, and giving disabled people and individuals in niche communities, a space in which to thrive. By investing in TruSo, you’re not just investing in a nuanced social media platform, you’re backing a movement for a truly genuine and empowering social experience.
TruSo, a Black-owned social networking app, has come out the gate swinging. In a press release announcement, it was revealed that the new app — backed by the likes of Sway Calloway, Kareem Grimes, Terrell Owens, and Miki Barber — is poised to solve the challenges posed by audio-only apps like Clubh
Company | : | TruSo Inc. |
Corporate Address | : | 651 N Broad St, STE 205 #4700, Middletown, DE 19709 |
Offering Minimum | : | $9,999.60 |
Offering Maximum | : | $1,069,998.15 |
Minimum Investment Amount(per investor) | : | $117.00 |
Offering Type | : | Equity |
Security Name | : | Common Stock |
Minimum Number of Shares Offered | : | 5,128 |
Maximum Number of Shares Offered | : | 548,717 |
Price per Share | : | $1.95 |
Pre-Money Valuation | : | $16,155,750.00 |
Voting Rights of Securities Sold in this Offering
Voting Proxy. Subscriber shall appoint the Chief Executive Officer of the Company (the “CEO”), or his or her successor, as the Subscriber’s true and lawful proxy and attorney, with the power to act alone and with full power of substitution, to, consistent with this instrument and on behalf of the Subscriber, (i) vote all Securities, (ii) give and receive notices and communications, (iii) execute any instrument or document that the CEO determines is necessary or appropriate in the exercise of its authority under this instrument, and (iv) take all actions necessary or appropriate in the judgment of the CEO for the accomplishment of the foregoing. The proxy and power granted by the Subscriber pursuant to this Section are coupled with an interest. Such proxy and power will be irrevocable. The proxy and power, so long as the Subscriber is an individual, will survive the death, incompetency and disability of the Subscriber and, so long as the Subscriber is an entity, will survive the merger or reorganization of the Subscriber or any other entity holding the Securities. However, the Proxy will terminate upon the closing of a firm commitment underwritten public offering pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933 covering the offer and sale of Common Stock or the effectiveness of a registration statement under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 covering the Common Stock.
*Maximum number of shares offered subject to adjustment for bonus shares. See bonus info below
Investment Incentives and Bonuses*
Time-Based
Friends and Family Early Birds
Invest within the first 7 days and receive an additional 15% bonus shares.
Super Early Bird Bonus
Invest within the next 7 days and receive an additional 10% bonus shares.
Early Bird Bonus
Invest within the next 3 days and receive an additional 5% bonus shares.
Amount-Based Perks:
Tier 1
$117-249
TruSo Badge + Wall of Fame placement
Deciding to invest $117-249 in the TruSo Community will grant you an exclusive TruSo Social badge and guarantee your place on the TruSo Wall of Fame. Show it, post it... brag a little!
Tier 2
$250-799
TruSo Badge + TruBlue Wristband
You're moving on up! Deciding to invest $250-799 in the TruSo Community will grant you two exclusive gifts; TruSo Badge and TruBlue Wristband. Whether you post it or wear it, we're certain you'll create the ultimate FOMO!
Tier 3
$800-1,199
3X bundle; TruSo Badge, TruBlue Wristband, TruSo T-Shirt
You believe in us, don't you?! Deciding to invest $800-1,199 in the TruSo Community will grant you what we call the "3X Bundle," which includes three exclusive gifts; TruSo Badge, TruBlue Wristband, and TruSo T-Shirt. We'll call you the G.O.A.T.!
Tier 4
$1,200-4,999
ALL OF THE ABOVE + TruSo Celebrity Shoutout
Told you! You for sure don't need 1 million followers to be an Influencer with TruSo. Deciding to invest $1,200-4,999 in the TruSo Community will grant you all of the above, plus a TruSo Celebrity Shoutout. We're ok with you making your friends jealous!
Tier 5
$5000+
ALL OF THE ABOVE + Ultimate TruSo Influencer Box + BONUS!
Need anything else? Deciding to invest $5,000+ in the TruSo Community will grant you all of the above, plus the Ultimate TruSo Influencer Box which includes, the USA Olympian, Miki Barber, inspired TruSo Track Jacket, TruSo Tumbler, PLUS 30% Affiliate Revenue!
*All perks occur when the offering is completed.
The 10% StartEngine Owners' Bonus
TruSo will offer 10% additional bonus shares for all investments that are committed by investors that are eligible for the StartEngine Crowdfunding Inc. OWNer's bonus.
This means eligible StartEngine shareholders will receive a 10% bonus for any shares they purchase in this offering. For example, if you buy 100 shares of Common Stock at $1.95 / share, you will receive 110 shares of Common Stock, meaning you'll own 110 shares for $195. Fractional shares will not be distributed and share bonuses will be determined by rounding down to the nearest whole share.
This 10% Bonus is only valid during the investor's eligibility period. Investors eligible for this bonus will also have priority if they are on a waitlist to invest and the company surpasses its maximum funding goal. They will have the first opportunity to invest should room in the offering become available if prior investments are canceled or fail.
Investors will only receive a single bonus, which will be the highest bonus rate they are eligible for.
A crowdfunding investment involves risk. You should not invest any funds in this offering unless you can afford to lose your entire investment. In making an investment decision, investors must rely on their own examination of the issuer and the terms of the offering, including the merits and risks involved. These securities have not been recommended or approved by any federal or state securities commission or regulatory authority. Furthermore, these authorities have not passed upon the accuracy or adequacy of this document. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission does not pass upon the merits of any securities offered or the terms of the offering, nor does it pass upon the accuracy or completeness of any offering document or literature. These securities are offered under an exemption from registration; however, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has not made an independent determination that these securities are exempt from registration.
[The following is an automated notice from the StartEngine team].
Hello! Recently, a change was made to the TruSo offering. Here's an excerpt describing the specifics of the change:
Issuer is extending campaign end date.
When live offerings undergo changes like these on StartEngine, the SEC requires that certain investments be reconfirmed. If your investment requires reconfirmation, you will be contacted by StartEngine via email with further instructions.
[The following is an automated notice from the StartEngine team].
Hello! Recently, a change was made to the TruSo offering. Here's an excerpt describing the specifics of the change:
Issuer has provided updated financials and is extending their campaign 60 days.
When live offerings undergo changes like these on StartEngine, the SEC requires that certain investments be reconfirmed. If your investment requires reconfirmation, you will be contacted by StartEngine via email with further instructions.
[The following is an automated notice from the StartEngine team].
Hello! Recently, a change was made to the TruSo offering. Here's an excerpt describing the specifics of the change:
Issuer is extending the length of their campaign by 30 days.
When live offerings undergo changes like these on StartEngine, the SEC requires that certain investments be reconfirmed. If your investment requires reconfirmation, you will be contacted by StartEngine via email with further instructions.
Honestly, I wish that we could tell you everything we're cooking, but you can understand that we don't need anyone riding our success and claiming it as their own. Let's just say this... what you smell coming from kitchen is going to be good. Real good!
Family, we were featured on Black News on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, which led to a feature on Black Enterprise the same day. Since then, the features have been shared more than 5,000 times across social media! This is such great news because each featured as contributed to a $14K increase in investments in just over 48 hours and 50+ new investors. Thank you, thank you!
Yes, we'll say it always it; we have one goal at Truso, Inc. and that is to create a social media app that is both Inclusive and Empowering for All.
If you haven't invested, consider doing so today. Later will be too late. Trust me.
Together we win,
Matthew Newman
Founder, CEO & Chairman • Truso, Inc.
Photo Credit: Karim Saafir Photography
What incredible progress we've made together. Thank you! I, along with partners Miki Barber (2x USA Olympian) and Terrell "TO" Owens (NFL Hall of Famer, 6x Pro Bowl) were featured on the Black News Channel. We salute the journalist, Anser Hassan, for helping to share the TruSo story in order to show our community what's possible. We're on to something, surely.
As we head towards the final 30-days of our campaign, we ask that you please share our campaign with as many people as possible. We're depending on you, our supporters, to share the good news.
Yes, we'll say it always it; we have one goal at Truso, Inc. and that is to create a social media app that is both Inclusive and Empowering for All.
Enjoy the interview below!
Together we win,
Matthew Newman
Founder, CEO & Chairman • Truso, Inc.
We're tremendously excited to have the opportunity to share our TruSo reality with 5 guests judges for the adidas x Black Ambition Pitch Competition this Friday, February 4, 2022.
The adidas x Black Ambition Inglewood Prize Competition in partnership with Sonder Impact will provide a platform for Black and Latinx entrepreneurs in Inglewood to access growth capital, pitch feedback, and entrepreneurial training. This competition is part of the Black Ambition x adidas Opportunity Week, which seeks to activate the 2022 Super Bowl beyond the field by providing empowering experiences for those Inglewood community members who have historically been disproportionately excluded from access to growth capital to launch and scale business ventures (Source: Sonder Impact).
As much virtual-love you can send... send it. Just know that we're going in their BLAZING! We're doing this for you... our family.
Yes, we'll say it always it; we have one goal at Truso, Inc. and that is to create a social media app that is both Inclusive and Empowering for All.
Together we win,
Matthew Newman
Founder, CEO & Chairman • Truso, Inc.
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Black Ambition is a non-profit initiative founded by Pharrell Williams, a visionary recording artist, philanthropist, and entrepreneur, working towards closing the opportunity and wealth gap for Black and Latinx communities through entrepreneurship.
Sonder Impact is Sip & Sonder's 501(c)(3) non-profit affiliate that is committed to empowering Black communities to take ownership of their personal and professional capacity building by spearheading programs and initiatives that have a measurable impact on individual and collective development. Through various programs, such as our Black Business Pitch Competition, we strive to address our community's lack of access and exposure to resources, knowledge, investors, mentors, partners, and clients in order to build a framework for individual and collective wealth creation.
$25,000 is no easy feat, and truly, we couldn't have done it without each of you; the community. Thank you!
We're sticking to our word, folks. We're hiring! As the community continues to invest in our campaign, we want to further develop the TruSo App to ensure that it's not only safe, but one that keeps you engaged. If you're a mobile app developer (cross-platform) or know someone who is (only the best!), learn more and apply here.
Yes, we'll say it always it; we have one goal at Truso, Inc. and that is to create a social media app that is both Inclusive and Empowering for All.
Together we win,
Matthew Newman
Founder, CEO & Chairman • Truso, Inc.
Allow us to begin by expressing our gratitude for those who have helped us cross the $21K mark. We wanted to share an update once we hit $20K but it all happened faster than our fingers can press send!
The success of crowdfunding will forever speak to the testament of true community. A collective voice is always more powerful than a single voice. You will hear us say it often -- we have one goal at Truso, Inc. and that is to create a social media app that is both Inclusive and Empowering for All. Your support and investment are what helps us to reach that goal. We too lean on you to Share this with others, all others. Therefore, without hesitation, share it. We all benefit.
Together we win,
Matthew Newman
Founder, CEO & Chairman • Truso, Inc.
TruSo Family, allow us to first thank each of you for taking time to peruse our campaign page. There are so many phenomenal companies on the platform, but we thank you for stopping here.
Be confident in the fact that we work tirelessly to construct a platform that will shift today's narrative landscape, which is shaped in large by social media; this we understand. Therefore, we have one goal at Truso, Inc. and that is to create a social media app that is both Inclusive and Empowering for All.
We invite you to be a part of our community.
Together we win,
Matthew Newman
Founder, CEO & Chairman • Truso, Inc.
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