[citation needed] 1997 saw Microsoft debut the website as a listing of local events and information in numerous cities.
It was Microsoft Corporation's attempt to create a group of comprehensive web portals oriented towards specific cities.
"[2] On June 25, 2009, Citysearch launched the "Right Here Right Now" challenge, inviting anyone to create a brand new business at Sidewalk.com that enable users to live life on the go more easily.
Participants are called to submit a brilliant idea for a web and mobile application that includes access to Citysearch's taxonomy, directory, content and other open APIs focused on local.
Selected by a panel of judges, the creator of the winning application will win $10,000 in cash and, possibly, the opportunity to develop and manage a new business venture with up to $1 million in funding and an equity stake in the new Sidewalk.com venture, and access to the Citysearch publisher network allowing them to instantly monetize traffic.