Vandoor

Nextdoor for Vanlifers

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Inspiration

The spec for this app was very specific asking for a instagram like app for vanlifers with dating features.

I determined the nearest thing was nextdoor. Then it clicked, Vandoor.

What it does

Works like nextdoor or instagram, gated behind invites. Allows finding people based on geography.

How we built it

Flutter and a lean backend for flexibility and time to MVP.

Challenges we ran into

The greatest challenge was actually image rendering on emulator for testing. Everything worked fine on actual phones, but the emulator caused constant issues with images that made it difficult to work with during development. This cost the most time out of everything.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Bucking the dating trend of swipe left swipe right is a godsend for dating apps.

What we learned

It has been awhile since I made an app. Google play console has become incredibly intricate and difficult to work with.

What's next for Vandoor

Geographic selection for users location needs to be more granular, right now it is major metro's or GPS. Staying off gps and providing more options for setting location would help the UX.

The paid section supports posting any kind of text and images, currently it is only marketed as builder guides per the original spec, but this can easily be expanded for blogging or other kinds of information sharing, as well as adding video support.

My biggest goal for monetization is like Nextdoor. Selling parts and services.

Additions

Use TESTCODE to get access. The original request was to be gated behind an invite link.

https://github.com/bigwolfeman/vandoor-submission/blob/master/proposal.md

https://github.com/bigwolfeman/vandoor-submission/blob/master/technical-documentation.md

Developer Bio

Austin DeWolfe

Background: ML/AI researcher and HPC infrastructure specialist with a passion for building software that connects people. Experienced in high-performance computing, GPU optimization (CUDA kernel development), and full-stack application development.

Relevant Experience:

  • Deep expertise in machine learning systems, from research to production deployment
  • HPC infrastructure design and optimization for distributed computing workloads
  • Full-stack mobile development with Flutter, Firebase, and cloud services
  • Extensive experience with AI-assisted development workflows

Tech Stack Proficiency:

  • Languages: Python, Dart, Rust, C++, CUDA, TypeScript
  • Mobile: Flutter, Firebase ecosystem
  • AI/ML: PyTorch, custom CUDA kernels, model optimization
  • Infrastructure: Linux systems, GPU computing, cloud services

Portfolio:

Motivation for Shipyard:

The van life community is underserved by existing platforms. As someone who values both technology and community, I saw Shipyard as the perfect opportunity to build something that solves a real problem — connecting mobile communities who lack a dedicated digital home. Kara and Nate's audience represents millions of travelers who deserve better than scattered Facebook Groups and Reddit threads. Vandoor is my answer: a purpose-built app that understands the unique challenges of life on the road, from finding nearby community members to accessing expert build knowledge. The RevenueCat integration enables a sustainable business model that aligns creator value with community growth.

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