Hily was co-founded by Yan Pronin[5] and Alex Pasykov[7]. The concept for the app originated from Pronin's professional background in analytics and statistical modeling.[5] The app was designed to connect prospective partners based on similar interests, instead of geographic location and physical attractiveness.[8][9] On August 14, 2017, the app launched in the United States.[5] In March 2019, it was also released in the UK, Ireland, and France.[7]