Perry Street Software

Perry Street Software runs two of the most established gay dating apps out there—SCRUFF and Jack’d—serving over 45 million LGBTQ+ members worldwide. While these platforms are primarily about dating and socializing, they sit squarely in the intimacy tech space where connections (both romantic and physical) start. The company has been particularly vocal about privacy in dating apps, which matters a lot when you’re talking about platforms people use to find hookups and relationships. The company made headlines when SCRUFF acquired Jack’d, positioning itself as what it claims will be the largest LGBTQ-owned-and-operated software company by revenue and reach. More recently, Perry Street took the unusual step of removing third-party ad networks from Jack’d entirely—a move that cost serious time and money but addressed long-standing privacy concerns around the app. Founded in 2010 by CEO Eric Silverberg, the New York-based company operates fully remote with a globally distributed team. Beyond just running dating apps, Perry Street has gotten involved in internet policy advocacy, engaging with U.S. lawmakers on Section 230 regulation to defend LGBTQ+ digital spaces. The company’s privacy-first stance—refusing to sell user data or use invasive ad networks—sets it apart in an industry where dating apps have historically been criticized for how they handle sensitive user information.