He built an app to bring neighbours closer. Keeping it going hasn't been easy
After nearly seven years running GoodHood.SG, founder Nigel Teo reflects on the challenges of sustaining the platform and the volunteers who have helped him along the way.
Nigel Teo, the founder of GoodHood.SG, has spent nearly seven years trying to revive the kampung spirit through the platform, which was launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. The kampung spirit refers to the sense of community and support that existed in neighborhoods where neighbors knew one another and regularly interacted. Mr Teo, a former government scholar, has supported himself through living simply and investments. He remembers a childhood filled with neighborhood play and neighbors checking on each other.
As the platform grew, it attracted a significant user base, with around 120,000 users by June 2026. The platform helped residents list unwanted household items for others or seek assistance with tasks. However, securing funding has proven challenging for Mr Teo. The initiative initially received a small grant, but the money ran out within four or five months.
Despite the lack of financial support, GoodHood.SG received over S$1 million in total funding through government grants, philanthropic support, and donations from Mr Teo himself.
Mr Teo acknowledges the challenges of maintaining the platform and the emotional toll of his dedication. He has since learned to be more cautious about his commitments and has received support from around 300 volunteers. These volunteers, who contribute their time and skills without expecting special privileges, reflect the spirit of active citizenship. Mr Teo hopes to expand GoodHood.SG one neighborhood at a time, working with partners who share its vision.
Written by urgent.news from CNA - Singapore's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
