chalseaf team collaborating on financial solutions

Our Story at chalseaf

We're not just another financial platform. We're a team of passionate innovators who saw a gap between great startup ideas and the capital they needed to succeed. Since 2018, we've been connecting visionary entrepreneurs with investors who believe in potential.

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Startup funding meeting at chalseaf offices

Our Mission & Vision

At chalseaf, we believe every worthwhile idea deserves a chance. Our platform was born out of frustration with traditional funding models that favored connections over concepts. We've built something different — a place where merit wins.

We're working toward a future where access to capital isn't determined by who you know, but by the strength of your vision and execution. The best ideas should win, regardless of where they come from.

Transparency Innovation Inclusivity Integrity Empowerment

Meet Our Team

The folks behind chalseaf aren't just finance experts — we're entrepreneurs who've been in your shoes. We've built companies, faced rejection from investors, and know what it takes to break through.

Michael Donovan

Michael Donovan

Founder & CEO

After being turned down by 27 investors for his first startup (which later sold for M), Mike made it his mission to transform how founders access capital. Before chalseaf, he worked in venture capital at Sequoia and Goldman Sachs.

Sarah Chen

Sarah Chen

CTO & Head of Platform

Sarah's background in fintech and distributed systems made her the perfect person to build our secure, scalable platform. She's passionate about using technology to level the playing field and previously led engineering teams at Stripe and Square.

chalseaf's Investor Community

Our Community

Investors & Founders

The real magic of chalseaf happens in our community. We've grown to over 15,000 accredited investors and 8,000 founders who connect, collaborate, and create value together. Join us and become part of something bigger.