For a social connections and events startup like the one you described, several business models can be considered. The choice of the business model should align with your target audience, value proposition, and long-term goals. Here are some recommended business models:

​​​​Freemium Model:
​​​​    Basic Features for Free: Offer basic access to event listings and limited social connections for free to attract a large user base.
​​​​    Premium Features: Charge a subscription fee for premium features, such as advanced search filters, unlimited connections, and enhanced social graph analysis.

​​​​Subscription Model:
​​​​    Tiered Subscriptions: Offer multiple subscription tiers with varying levels of access and benefits. For example, a basic plan for event discovery and limited connections, a premium plan with advanced features, and a VIP plan with exclusive perks.
​​​​    Monthly or Annual Payments: Allow users to choose between monthly or annual subscription plans.

​​​​Advertising Model:
​​​​    Free Access: Provide free access to all features for users, but monetize through targeted advertising. Use user data and interests to display relevant ads.
​​​​    Sponsored Events: Allow event organizers to promote their events through sponsored listings and banners.

​​​​Event Promotion Model:
​​​​    Event Organizer Partnerships: Partner with event organizers to promote their events on your platform for a fee or commission on ticket sales generated through your platform.
​​​​    Featured Listings: Offer event organizers the option to feature their events prominently for an additional fee.

​​​​In-App Purchases:
​​​​    Virtual Goods: Introduce in-app purchases for virtual goods or premium content that enhances the user experience. For example, virtual badges, stickers, or exclusive content related to events or connections.

​​​​Affiliate Marketing Model:
​​​​    Affiliate Commissions: Promote products or services related to events (e.g., event tickets, travel accommodations) and earn commissions on sales generated through affiliate links.

​​​​Data Licensing Model:
​​​​    User Insights: Analyze user behavior and social graph data (while ensuring user privacy) and offer these insights to businesses for market research and targeting purposes.

​​​​Sponsorships and Partnerships:
​​​​    Local Business Partnerships: Partner with local businesses (restaurants, bars, venues) to offer discounts or promotions to your users. Earn a commission on sales generated through your platform.

​​​​Crowdfunding Model:
​​​​    Crowdfunding Campaign: Launch a crowdfunding campaign to raise initial capital for development and marketing. Offer early access or exclusive features to backers.

​​​​Event Ticketing Fees:
​​​​    Ticketing Service: If your platform sells event tickets directly, charge a fee or commission on each ticket sold through your platform.

It's important to conduct market research and consider your target audience's willingness to pay, as well as the competitive landscape, when choosing your business model. You may also consider a combination of these models to diversify revenue streams. Additionally, be flexible and open to adapting your business model as you gather user feedback and evolve your platform based on user preferences and market trends.