Finding a local business online isn't as simple as it used to be. Someone might ask Google, or they might ask ChatGPT or Claude. For small businesses, that fragmentation creates a real visibility problem.
Atlanta-based Searchbird thinks they have a fix. The startup builds custom-coded websites (no WordPress templates) optimized for both traditional SEO and what they call GEO: generative engine optimization.
Co-founder Sam Lukens says the focus is on building long-term brand value, not chasing algorithm tricks. "We view SEO and GEO as a long-term game focused on building brand value," he said.
Searchbird delivers what Lukens calls "enterprise-level, highly architected websites" to businesses that traditionally couldn't afford that tier of web development. The core pillars are trust, strong web vitals, and unique content.
