Town Ticks, a Canada-based startup aiming to reshape the role of social media by emphasizing information over entertainment, has officially joined the LaunchUp program by FasterCapital. The company is currently raising $600K to support its mission of building a responsible, AI-enhanced platform for local business updates and city-level information.

Founded by Usman Rafique, Town Ticks introduces a platform that moves away from the traditional, addictive content models dominating current social media. Instead, it delivers real-time, categorized updates from businesses, governments, and community organizations—empowering users with accurate, localized content while upholding user privacy and eliminating fake news and hate speech.

Commenting on the collaboration, Hesham Zreik, CEO at FasterCapital, said, "Town Ticks is addressing a major pain point in today’s digital ecosystem—how to responsibly connect communities without the pitfalls of algorithm-driven entertainment. We’re excited to support their journey in creating a healthier digital experience."

He added, "Their clear vision, innovative use of AI and AR, and strong focus on purpose-driven content set them apart in the social media landscape. Town Ticks is building what today’s users—and cities—truly need."

On the partnership, Usman Rafique shared, "We’re thrilled to join FasterCapital’s LaunchUp program. Their support aligns perfectly with our mission to transform how communities engage online—more responsibly, more locally, and more meaningfully. The funding we’re raising will accelerate our development and help scale our impact across cities in Canada and beyond."

As part of LaunchUp, Town Ticks will gain access to FasterCapital's mentorship, tech support, and investor network, helping the company bring its vision of a better digital public square to life.