Edmonton accounting student's app Zelse launches with 650+ location missions worldwide

Edmonton accounting student Kyle Bauder built an app to get people off the couch and out exploring their cities. Zelse launched with more than 650 location-based missions across the globe, including 25 in Edmonton so far, with plans to expand across Alberta and Canada.

Users complete challenges ranging from photographing notable landmarks like the Legislature to visiting sites that highlight a city's culture and history. Complete a mission, earn points. Premium members can create their own missions. The concept has evolved significantly since its inception — Bauder shifted it from a general exploration idea into a travel tool.

"Tourists aren't always aware of the area or what sites and sights are important to see," Bauder said. "The idea of the app is you go out and do these missions in your community or your city, then you get these points."

Edmonton was the first city built into the platform. Bauder has already added missions for Madagascar and smaller places worldwide. "We're looking to curate Alberta first and then all of Canada. Where there's a will for them, people will sign up and create their own local ideas." Those could include everything from local folklore and historic landmarks to famous restaurants and hidden attractions.

Future updates are expected to add rewards tied to local businesses, with restaurants and retailers creating their own missions so users can redeem points for discounts. Bauder envisions this approach helping people engage in their community, stay active, and have fun — a counterweight to apps designed to keep users home on their phones.