Claim Social Shopping Platform Expands to 10 Major U.S. Cities

Claim, a social shopping platform initially developed at Harvard University, is broadening its reach by launching in ten major metropolitan areas across the United States. The app, which helps users earn rewards while shopping and dining, will now be accessible to consumers beyond college campuses.

The platform's expansion includes cities such as Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. Previously restricted to users with .edu email addresses, Claim is now open to all residents and visitors in these metropolitan areas.

CEO Sam Obletz highlighted the platform's unique value proposition, addressing the rising costs of digital advertising. By directly reapplying customer acquisition budgets to consumer wallets, Claim offers brands an innovative marketing channel that connects them with high-value customers.

The app's model allows users to earn cash back when dining at partner establishments like Blank Street Coffee, Gong cha, and Chip City. When users invite friends to the platform, both receive $10 in Claims to brands of their choice, creating a viral growth mechanism.

This expansion represents a significant shift in how brands engage with younger consumers, particularly Gen Z. By transforming traditional advertising models into a rewards-based system, Claim aims to create more meaningful and cost-effective customer interactions.