Tired of hearing about the glooming economic devastation facing most Americans, three business savvy Hampton Roads natives combined time, energy, talent, and resources in an effort to combat the current economic crisis.

“I have an idea that will stimulate individual and corporate economies,” were the words that Sean Strubbe said to Nick Seretis, owner of Norfolk’s own Orapax Restaurant, located in West Ghent. “What in the world are you talking about?” was the only thing that Nick could say in response to such an absurd statement. But then again, Albert Einstein once said, “If at first the idea is not absurd, then there is no hope for it.”

The idea to change the business world is here and it is about to happen now. The Three local talents, Sean Strubbe, Nick Seretis, and Stephen Halloran have developed NeedToConnect, the first Smartphone application of its kind that uses GPS technology to bring people together during the course of their every day lives. Sean’s original idea was to allow people from all walks of life to have the ability to broadcast to the world around them who they are, what they do, and what their needs are.

There could not have been a better time for this inception, given the number of people struggling in this economic climate. Whether it’s someone struggling to find a job, qualified leads for their business, or even answers to faith during a troubling time, NeedToConnect is a way to connect people with exactly what they need, when and where they need it.

The best part about the application, aside from the fact that it is absolutely free, is the user friendliness of the Smartphone app itself. Once the app is downloaded onto your Smartphone (iPhone, Android, Blackberry), exploring who is around you, inquiring about them and then connecting with them via chat, email, exchanging contact information or even meeting face to face is simple. For those of you who are not tech savvy, the creators had you in mind during development and the app has a very short “how to” tutorial to help you along.

NeedToConnect is already gaining traction with prospective users. A partnership has recently evolved with BNI (Business Networking International) of Southeastern Virginia, a division of the largest business networking organization in the world. BNI’s relentless dedication to finding new ways to help their members be more successful has ensured a great advantage over other networking groups through this alliance.

So the next time you are in a Starbucks, Panera, or another venue, imagine the possibilities. Download the app and explore the world around you. You never know, the caterer you need for your daughters wedding, your future employer, or the pastor you need prayer with, might be closer than you think. NeedToConnect, networking just got easier.

NeedToConnect will be available in late November with an official launch in early January at the beautiful Sandler Center of performing arts at Town Point Center in Virginia Beach. Hundreds of guests will be attending this networking social with special speakers and door prizes. Be sure to follow the release of the official NeedToConnect commercial on youtube. You can also follow the progress of this Smartphone application on Facebook and Twitter.