PH Startup Bets on Human Connection as Next Big Business Amid Global Loneliness

Filipino startup Think Responsibly is focusing on face-to-face human connection, betting it's the next wave of the experience economy, particularly as global studies highlight high loneliness rates among Filipinos. This trend is sparking interest in curated, in-person gatherings as a response to widespread digitalization and social isolation.

Subscribe to newsletter

In an era dominated by artificial intelligence and instant digital connections, Filipino startup Think Responsibly is making a counter-intuitive bet: that genuine, face-to-face human interaction is becoming increasingly valuable. Founder Louis Enriquez, speaking on ANC's Business Outlook, highlighted a shift where consumers are prioritizing curated experiences, shared learning, and authentic communities over material purchases, signaling the rise of the 'experience economy,' as reported by ABS-CBN News.

Think Responsibly capitalizes on this by organizing live learning sessions in informal settings like bars. These events feature short talks from experts on diverse topics, from finance to pasta-making, followed by Q&A and networking. Enriquez noted that attendees often opt for quality experiences over quantity, choosing one premium cocktail while engaging in meaningful conversations and learning, rather than excessive consumption, underscoring that the 'experience itself' is the product.

This business model emerges as a direct response to a growing global concern: loneliness and social isolation. The World Health Organization's Commission on Social Connection identified loneliness as a major global public health challenge in June 2025. Adding to this, a Gallup and Meta study revealed that 57 percent of Filipinos reported feeling 'very' or 'fairly' lonely, one of the highest rates globally, despite 80 percent feeling socially connected overall. This highlights a crucial distinction between frequent social interactions and truly meaningful relationships.

The demand for genuine connection is evident in Think Responsibly's success, with five consecutive sold-out events since May 2026. This trend resonates with Filipino communities abroad, including in New Zealand, where professionals and entrepreneurs actively seek in-person networking opportunities. For instance, the New Zealand Philippines Business Council (NZPBC) recently hosted a networking night in Auckland, aiming to foster meaningful relationships and strengthen the New Zealand-Philippines business network, as detailed in a July 2026 LinkedIn announcement. This desire for 'connectedness and belonging' is a recognized indicator of well-being for ethnic communities in New Zealand, according to the Ministry for Ethnic Communities.

For Filipino founders, professionals, and community leaders in New Zealand, Australia, and the Philippines, this trend suggests a strong market for initiatives that cultivate authentic social bonds. While community-based activities can encourage vital social interaction and address the 'loneliness economy,' mental health experts emphasize they are not a substitute for professional mental healthcare when needed. The increasing demand for such services, observed by Enriquez as an HR professional, further underscores the importance of fostering supportive, connected communities.