Student Fights Housing Crunch with Innovative Roommate Platform

Neuchâtel Entrepreneur Creates COLOC.CH to Connect Young People

A common struggle for students transitioning to higher education—finding affordable accommodation—has spurred the creation of a new online solution. David Giudice, a computer science student, developed COLOC.CH after facing difficulties securing a room himself in Lausanne.

A Self-Taught Solution for Shared Living

Launched last November, COLOC.CH has quickly gained traction, listing available rooms across French-speaking Switzerland and enabling users to post their own housing needs. The platform, built entirely by David Giudice, operates independently and is largely funded by his personal savings from student jobs. The site is free to use, with recently introduced premium features.

Giudice‘s entrepreneurial spirit was recognized with a third-place finish and the BCN Boost public prize for his project. He aims to keep his venture accessible while ensuring its growth and sustainability.

Beyond Listings: Prioritizing People

David Giudice emphasizes that COLOC.CH is more than just a housing database. He believes the key to successful shared living lies in the compatibility of housemates, not just the location. To facilitate this, the platform includes a filter system allowing users to search for roommates based on preferences like gender, age, and hobbies.

This focus on personal connection differentiates COLOC.CH from existing informal channels like social media groups or general classified ads, addressing a crucial aspect of student cohabitation that is often overlooked.

Ensuring a Secure and Trustworthy Community

A significant concern for Giudice was establishing a secure environment for users. COLOC.CH offers a connection system that utilizes student identifiers from universities and colleges, providing a certification badge to verified users. The platform also includes features for reporting suspicious listings and leaving feedback on users, fostering a more trustworthy community.

A recent report by the Swiss Federal Statistical Office indicated that in 2023, approximately 15% of students in Switzerland experienced difficulties finding suitable accommodation, highlighting the persistent need for platforms like COLOC.CH.

Future Vision for Expansion

The 22-year-old Neuchâtel native is optimistic about the future of his platform. David Giudice hopes to see COLOC.CH expand its reach beyond French-speaking Switzerland, becoming a recognized resource for students nationwide.