Meet Fabio Rusca, Founder & CEO of SUNNYCLOCK AG

Tell us about SUNNYCLOCK

SUNNYCLOCK is revolutionising the way businesses and individuals plan activities and events. Our innovative social network blends planning features, online interactions, and offline experiences—without relying on traditional advertising. We help businesses build, nurture, and monetise real relationships with their stakeholders.

Please give some more details of your startup story

The company was founded in 2016 with the aim of creating a people-centred social network. It took two development cycles to define the core concept of SUNNYCLOCK. We began programming in 2019 and launched initial closed beta tests in 2022. In 2023, we released the consumer app and began developing business features in collaboration with our first paying customers. SUNNYCLOCK is currently operated by a small core team of two (CEO and CTO), supported by two engineers from a programming partner. Our goal is to have a fully scalable solution for both consumers and businesses by the end of 2025, aiming for 50 paying customers and 25,000 users by mid-2026.

Tell us more about your plans for 2025 and what is your long-term vision

In 2025, we will focus on expanding our Business Basic Features for clubs, local businesses, coaches, and decentralised networks. Key developments include interactive planning tools, integrated online booking, and an activity/event marketplace accessible via app and web. We are scaling our social network—based solely on activities and events—using a B2B approach, and will then expand offerings for both business and consumer users. To support this vision, we are actively seeking investors until mid-2025 who share our belief in building more active, meaningful connections in society. After all, only groups that meet regularly in person can co-create local solutions to global challenges. By 2030, our goal is to become Europe’s largest planning platform outside of Switzerland.

What has been the biggest success that you have achieved in your startup?

Our greatest achievement is developing a sustainable model for a social network. Today’s social platforms are primarily advertising channels, no longer acting as bridge-builders between people. Their business model relies on maximising screen time. Our approach flips this: we aim to help people efficiently plan physical activities and events, while also operating a profitable, mission-aligned business.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? What are your biggest learnings?

With the knowledge I have now, there are certainly things I would do differently. But much of this learning had to come through experience. Many times, there was no clear alternative to the path we chose. Without my initial naivety as a newcomer to digitalisation, I might never have started SUNNYCLOCK—yet that belief in the potential of an activity-driven social network still drives me today. It may have been easier to launch SUNNYCLOCK in a different market with more venture capital, but my vision has always been to build a values-driven platform with local partners and sponsors. You don’t give up on a dream because of a little headwind—you stay true to your values. That’s what sets SUNNYCLOCK apart.

What motivates you to continue your business every day?

Social networks influence how we connect and communicate every day. While many were founded with good intentions, today’s ad-driven platforms are designed to capture attention—not to serve people or communities. Our activity- and event-driven approach offers a meaningful alternative. It creates real-life encounters, not just digital noise. That mission—helping people plan and participate in real-world experiences—gives me purpose and joy every day.

One piece of advice for someone who is just starting out with their startup?

You need to believe in what you’re doing and have a strong support system. Building a startup—especially one centered around product development—takes an incredible amount of time, energy, and resilience. Everything takes longer than expected—usually double. Startups lack the structures and resources of established businesses, so things simply move slower when challenges arise. Approach the journey as a long-term commitment. Those “overnight success” stories? They’re more like lottery wins than a blueprint. Focus on consistency and stay grounded.

What does it mean to you to be a member of the Swiss Startup Association?

As a startup, every opportunity to network is essential for gaining access to knowledge, visibility, resources, and connections. A strong support system is key to turning an idea into a product—and a product into a business. Trust between people still drives many decisions. The Swiss Startup Association offers valuable visibility, insights, and access to an incredible network, making it a vital support pillar for founders in Switzerland.

Would you recommend joining the Swiss Startup Association? Why?

Absolutely. The SSA provides a wide range of high-value events, courses, and exchange platforms. It’s a fantastic way for startups to expand their support system across all levels.

Have you ever visited the events of the Swiss Startup Association? If yes, which ones? Would you recommend them?

This year, we plan to attend more SSA events, including Founders Day. I’ve already had valuable interactions with the team through calls and one-on-one meetings. I definitely recommend getting involved.

Is there anything that we haven’t asked you that you would like to share with us/the community?

We’re currently in the process of raising funds. If you’re interested in learning more or getting involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly at ask@sunnyclock.com.

Connect with Fabio on LinkedIn

________________________________________________________

About the Swiss Startup Association

The Swiss Startup Association (SSA) is the umbrella organisation and the voice of Swiss startups. As a sector-independent non-profit organisation, the SSA gives startups a strong voice vis-à-vis politics, business, and works to improve the conditions for startups in Switzerland.
Beyond its political engagement, the SSA fosters a community for startups, recognizing the unique challenges they face. Through networking opportunities, educational sessions, and practical services, the SSA collaborates with industry partners to offer tailored support and valuable resources to guide founders on their entrepreneurial journey.

Join the Swiss Startup Association! Tap into our member benefits, the comprehensive Investor List and get full access to our events. By becoming an SSA Member you enjoy discounted tickets to our Big Founders Dinners and the SSA Founders Day.