Meet Jim Schimpf, Co-Founder and CEO of Chattr, an enterprise-wide AI Assisted frontline hiring and onboarding platform.
Chattr is a member of Embarc Collective, a tech startup community in Tampa. Chattr’s online human resource technology is designed to streamline hourly employee recruiting at scale. Chattr serves customers across the restaurant and hospitality, retail, and senior living sectors and is backed by Florida Funders, Circadian Ventures, BIP Ventures, Baird, Channel Angels and many others.
Q: How did Chattr get its start?
A: In 2016, I first got a glimpse of what AI technology could really do, and it blew my mind. As an entrepreneur, I knew I had to take this powerful technology and apply it to a big problem. From my time recruiting at a staffing company, I’d seen how high turnover and endless manual hiring tasks weighed down the process. That’s where the idea for Chattr came in: we wanted to create a software that’s so simple and intuitive, hiring actually becomes the easiest part of their day. By 2018, we were using AI to automate the most tedious parts of recruiting. And honestly, seeing how it’s helped iconic brands like Waffle House and Bealls stores streamline their hiring process has been amazing. At the end of the day, we’re all about helping companies connect with the people who really power them, and we’re excited to keep pushing that mission forward.
Q: Why did you choose to become an entrepreneur?
A: Becoming an entrepreneur felt less like a decision and more like answering a calling. I craved the sense of ownership, growth, and impact that only comes from building something of my own. So, before turning 30, I set a goal to step into entrepreneurship. It’s been a journey of discovery, challenge, and fulfillment, and I haven’t looked back since.
Q: Why did you choose to start your business in Tampa?
A: I’ve lived in Tampa since I was 10, apart from college and a brief stint in Austin. I’ve always felt Tampa is one of the best places to live, work, and play, and I’m driven to spotlight everything our city has to offer. From a business standpoint, my goal was to grow a technology company right here, leveraging local investors, creating local jobs, and elevating Tampa as a vibrant tech hub. It helps that Tampa’s favorable environment—strategic location, economic growth, and supportive tax policies—aligns perfectly. Ultimately, I want to celebrate a successful exit and reinvest my time, resources, and expertise back into Tampa’s startup community, empowering the next generation of founders who share my passion for Tampa’s remarkable potential.
Q: How critical was the Tampa Bay startup community (investors, mentors, entrepreneurs, etc.) in your journey to becoming an entrepreneur?
A: The Tampa Bay startup community was absolutely critical to my journey as an entrepreneur. I’ve been fortunate to have Florida Funders as our lead investor since the beginning. MacDonald Ventures, another Tampa-based investment firm, also believed in our vision early on. Their commitment to supporting local founders and helping Tampa grow aligns well with my own dedication to this city. Along the way, I’ve been guided by countless mentors who generously share both their successes and setbacks. I wouldn’t be where I am today without Tampa’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Q: Are there any additional, local resources in Tampa that you’d recommend to newcomers or entrepreneurs that have had a positive impact on your business journey?
A: As a serial entrepreneur but a first-time tech founder, I don’t think I could have built our company without Tampa’s entrepreneurial support organizations, Tampa Bay Wave and Embarc Collective. They offered mentorship, networking, and resources at every stage, from ideation through scaling.
Q: What would your overall advice be to someone looking to start a business in Tampa Bay?
A: Starting a business requires a bold, all-in mindset. However, it’s normal to face imposter syndrome—don’t let that stop you from seeking advice and leveraging the resources around you. The beauty of Tampa Bay’s entrepreneurial community lies in its openness: you don’t have to tackle this demanding yet rewarding journey alone. With so many passionate people and support systems available, you’ll find that once you gain a foothold, new opportunities will continue to present themselves.
Q: It’s been great to hear more about your success as an entrepreneur in Tampa. However, we know Tampa has so much to offer throughout the city. So, we must ask – what’s your favorite hidden gem in Tampa?
A: If you promise not to tell anyone…The Boozy Pig on Cypress Street. Excellent butcher shop / restaurant combo and the best cheeseburger in town. Get there early…food runs out!
Are you interested in learning more about Embarc Collective and the opportunities available for up-and-coming entrepreneurs? If so, check out our their resources to connect further! You can also find additional information about growing your business in Tampa on the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council’s website.