Nextdoor Cofounder Returns to Drive Community Engagement

Sarah Leary, the cofounder of Nextdoor, returned to the company after a five-year hiatus, during which she focused on investing in early-stage startups. Leary's return marks a significant moment for Nextdoor, which has grown into a $247 million-in-revenue business with 45.9 million weekly active users across 11 countries.

Leary's decision to step away from Nextdoor in 2019 was initially intended to allow her some time off and to explore new ventures. However, her experience investing in startups like Contra and Connectly helped her reconnect with Nextdoor’s original mission of strengthening real-life communities. She realized the rarity and impact of creating a platform that has become ubiquitous in people's daily lives.

Nextdoor's next phase is focused on three key priorities: time-sensitive information, local insights, and neighborhood news. The company is unveiling a series of partnerships with local news outlets and enhancing real-time safety alerts to position itself as an essential emergency resource. These initiatives aim to further integrate Nextdoor into the fabric of local communities, providing valuable information and support during critical moments.

Reflecting on Nextdoor's journey, Leary expressed a mix of pride and humility. She acknowledged the hard work involved in building an enduring company and the personal investment she has made in Nextdoor. "Nextdoor is my baby. I put my heart and soul into this. This is a mission that I believe in very strongly," she said. Leary's return to Nextdoor signifies a renewed commitment to the platform's mission and a dedication to continuing its growth and impact.