I support the idea of labelling it as a community and believe that your labelling should be focussed on that irrespective of what Angel.co does or does not do. Remember one thing that you have started Epika to bridge between software buyers and software teams and this can be only done by a community. There are several online communities from which you can draw inspiration from. These are as follows:
1. Community of Sweden. One of the most beautifully designed websites with an extraordinarily strong community and a great use of game mechanics. Tommy Sollen is a community genius.
2. SK-Gaming. If you play games online, you are probably a member of this near 1m strong gaming community. It is a hugely popular community with plenty of content about the community. Possibly the best use of game mechanics out there.
3. PoliceOne. A great example of building a community for a more difficult group. Most of the community anyone can access, but cops (once verified through their precinct) can talk in private areas. This community appeals to cops by offering great advice and satisfies affiliation needs well.
4. Harringay Online. You do not need strong technical expertise to build a community for your local neighbourhood.
5. Texans Talk. You can pick almost any NFL team and find a strong online community. The usual features are 1) It is unofficial 2) It uses an amazingly simple blog/forum 3) Very clear line between the top members and everyone else.
6. Gamer’s Voice. An active community using a Facebook group to tackle anti-video games policies and media. A good example of what a Facebook group can be.
7. Barista Exchange. The world’s top online community for Barista’s. Study the types of conversations carefully, you can use these in almost any community of practice.
8. Prisoner Life. Huge boundaries between insiders and outsiders. Easy to find affiliation and develop relationships within this community.
9. 4Chan. Best example of insiders entirely getting it and outsiders not having a clue. This community has its own language, culture, rituals, and many aspects that make a community strong.
10. Kiva. Excellent use of sub-groups to stimulate activity, good inclusion of game mechanics and it is all for a good cause.
Besides if you do have any questions give me a call: https://clarity.fm/joy-brotonath