Diem, the social search platform reimagining how information is discovered and shared online, has secured $1.8 million in venture funding led by Stellation, with participation from Precursor Ventures, Alumni Ventures, Swizzle Ventures, Gaingels and Otherwise Fund. The investment, which brings total funding to over $5 million, will help expand the platform’s mission to make searching the internet more social and inclusive.
Co-founded by Emma Bates, Diem emerged from a recognition that traditional search engines often fail to provide what people are really seeking – validation and connection through shared experiences. “When we’re asking questions online, we’re not just looking for facts,” explains Bates. “We’re looking to know we’re not alone.”
The platform’s unique approach leverages an AI model that combines traditional web content with community-generated stories. This addresses a critical gap in online information: While 70% of Google searches beginning with “is it normal” pertain to women’s health, the answers aren’t typically found in SEO-optimized results, but in personal experiences and stories.
While Diem’s core demographic is users in their 20s to mid-30s, the platform has attracted people across age groups in over 120 countries. “Whether it’s relationship issues, career advice, money questions, or book recommendations – these themes resonate across cultures,” notes Bates.
The company has recently launched its first monetization features, including premium homepage placement, sponsored conversations, and a rewards store. Early brand partners include vaginal health startup Evvy, dating app Sitch, and period care company August, with about 15 new partners currently onboarding.
Designed for “women and gender-expansive folks,” Diem emphasizes privacy and inclusivity. Users can search anonymously and use pseudonyms, with the platform promising that searches won’t be subpoenaed. Currently, 45% of users are based in the United States.
“The more people search and share, the better the experience becomes for everyone,” says Bates. This community-driven philosophy extends to ownership – the company recently opened a community investment round, which has already hit its first two fundraising goals. “The people helping to shape this new internet should also be owners in it.”
