PamPam, a new entrant in the digital mapping space, seeks to bring a fresh, community-focused approach to how we use maps. Unlike the traditional mapping giants like Google Maps and Apple Maps, PamPam is designed to be more than just a navigation tool; it aspires to be a platform where users can create and share personalized maps, fostering communities around shared interests and locations.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
PamPam, currently available as a website, allows users to design custom interactive maps tailored to their specific needs. For example, users have already created maps showcasing startups in New York City and small business directories for Philadelphia. The platform leverages data from Mapbox and Google Places, and it incorporates AI tools to help users discover and add locations to their maps, providing templates to get started.
Founded by Helena Jaramillo and Carlo Jörges, both of whom have backgrounds in Big Tech, including Google and Facebook, PamPam was quietly launched in December 2023. The idea for the platform emerged from the couple’s personal experiences of relocating to different cities and struggling to find mapping tools that truly met their needs. They found existing options like Google Maps and Apple Maps too reliant on mass reviews and algorithms, which didn’t help users decide where to go based on personal preferences.
PamPam aims to fill this gap by offering a platform focused on recommendations and discovery, especially for people seeking places where they can connect with like-minded individuals. The platform is not just about finding directions; it’s about helping users decide where to go and fostering real-world communities through digital maps.
In contrast to other apps, PamPam sees maps as the main content, with creators playing a central role in building communities around these maps. The platform has potential use cases for travel and lifestyle influencers who could create maps for their followers, showcasing the best places to visit in a city or highlighting the top restaurants and events.
Despite being in its early stages, PamPam is already exploring monetization strategies. While the platform is currently ad-free, it operates on a freemium model, offering a free version alongside paid tiers—”Pro” at $12 per month and “Business” at $29 per month. These premium tiers unlock features such as the ability to expand maps with more destinations and optimize them for broader reach.
TF Summary: What’s Next
PamPam’s founders are committed to building a sustainable business model without relying on venture capital, allowing them to scale at their own pace. As the platform continues to evolve, it could become a valuable tool for everyday users, creators, and businesses alike, offering a more personalized and community-oriented approach to digital mapping. With monetization already in sight, PamPam is poised to carve out its niche in the crowded mapping industry by making maps not just functional but also fun and interactive.
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