Empowering Local Voices: Pankaj Salunkhe’s Journey with TokBiz, the Hyperlocal Social Media App

In the vast landscape of social media giants, one Indian entrepreneur dared to dream of creating a platform that resonates with the diversity and inclusivity of his own nation. Pankaj Salunkhe, the visionary founder of TokBiz, embarked on a challenging journey to develop a hyper local app that seamlessly integrates the best features of WhatsApp, Facebook, and OLX. Though officially launched in 2017, the roots of TokBiz trace back to 2015, when Salunkhe and his dedicated team began crafting a unique social media experience.

Salunkhe’s motivation behind TokBiz was clear – to offer a social media platform tailored for individuals facing challenges with existing apps. With a mission to simplify the user experience, TokBiz quickly gained traction, amassing over 187,000 users who appreciate its fusion of familiar features. In the words of Salunkhe, “We’ve built an app that eases the social media experience for people who face problems with other apps.”

Building TokBiz wasn’t without its hurdles. Salunkhe recalls the struggle to secure investors, with many dismissing the project for being Indian-centric. “We had a small team and lacked support from investors, so conceptualizing and building the application took long,” he reflects. However, the team persevered, driven by the vision of creating a platform that resonates with the people comfortable in their mother tongue.

TokBiz stands out by seamlessly blending the best elements of WhatsApp, Facebook, and OLX. Users find a familiar interface enriched with features that cater to local needs. The app’s success lies in its hyperlocal approach, tailoring the user experience to specific regions and communities. This localization has struck a chord with users, offering a sense of belonging often missing in global social media platforms.

The turning point for TokBiz came with the ban on Chinese apps, leading to a significant surge in users. Salunkhe notes, “After the ban on Chinese apps, there was a massive surge in users on the platform.” The hyperlocal nature of TokBiz became even more crucial as users sought alternatives to fill the void left by the banned apps. The sudden influx prompted the team to enhance server capabilities to meet the rising demand, showcasing their dedication to providing a seamless user experience.

As TokBiz continues to gain momentum, Salunkhe remains focused on refining and expanding the platform. The entrepreneurial spirit that fueled the app’s creation now propels its evolution, with plans to further enhance server capabilities and introduce new features. The journey, though challenging, has positioned TokBiz as a testament to the potential of locally-driven social media platforms.

Pankaj Salunkhe’s vision for TokBiz has not only challenged the status quo but has also proven that a hyperlocal approach can thrive in a globalized digital landscape. In a world dominated by tech giants, TokBiz stands as a testament to the power of homegrown innovation. As the platform continues to grow, Salunkhe’s journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, proving that with determination and a deep understanding of local needs, it’s possible to create a space that resonates with users on a personal and cultural level.