Three University of Tennessee graduates have launched OutThere, a new event app built to help people rediscover what their community has to offer—from finding a new hobby, to making new friends or simply getting out of their house.
OutThere is already changing the way people engage with local events in Knoxville. Instead of jumping between social media accounts, scattered event calendars and inbox newsletters, OutThere brings everything together in one simple, ad-free app—prioritizing people over profit. The app is free to use, doesn’t sell personal data and gives equal space to all events, no matter the host.
The idea behind OutThere is rooted in the experience of its creators. “I was lonely, bored and disappointed with my ‘small town’, but in reality, I was projecting my own inaction onto the city,” says co-founder Nick Ambrosetti. “Once I got involved in housing justice advocacy, a Balinese
percussion ensemble and weekly contra dancing, I realized Knoxville was full of possibilities—I just hadn’t known where to look. We want OutThere to shine a light on those same kinds of opportunities for others.”
Before building the app, the team interviewed 88 randomly selected Knoxville residents. 60% said they didn’t feel connected to their community. 96% used social media to find out what’s happening, but on average spent more than 20 minutes searching for events. Many shared that this experience left them feeling “inadequate,” “tired” and “stressed out.” When asked what they wanted more time for, the most common themes were: getting involved, being creative and fostering real relationships.
OutThere launched in Knoxville on May 19, following an exclusive preview at PechaKucha earlier this year. Though self-funded and built in their off-hours, the three co-founders bring years of professional experience in design, data and product management, having worked with companies like Nike, Google, DeRoyal and Home Depot. Now they’re turning their attention homeward. “We all grew up in Tennessee, went to UTK, and we know how much Knoxville has to offer,” said Ambrosetti. “This is our way to give back and get even more involved.”
Early local partners featured on the app include Mia Piccola, Two Bikes, Ijams Nature Center, Hi-Wire Brewing, Fly by Night and Central Flats and Taps.
With broad event categories like music, entertainment, food, art, hobbies, sports and community, there’s something for everyone to discover. Users can RSVP to events with a single tap, curate a personal calendar, follow their favorite groups, share events with friends and see what others are up to.
OutThere’s community accounts are designed for venues, galleries, hobby clubs, nonprofits or any group that hosts events. Organizers can build a following, send event notifications, and link to ticketing or event pages—all without the stress of growing a social media presence.
User accounts will always be free. Business accounts are free during the launch season, but a small fee may be introduced in the future to help cover costs. The founders are committed to keeping the app ad-free and respectful of user data.
With over 2,000 users in Knoxville, the team hopes more people will take advantage of what OutThere has to offer. “This app only works if the community uses it. The more people who get involved, the more Knoxville can thrive,” Ambrosetti said.
To sign up, share events, and start building your own event calendar, visit here.