By Tim Ryan
Reelist, the Hampton Roads-based startup redefining modern recruitment through video-first solutions, has just announced the successful closure of its $3 million seed funding round. This marks a significant milestone for the company, which has quickly gained traction as an innovative force in talent acquisition.
Founded in 2022 by Sean Worden and Katy Schuck, Reelist combines the power of short-form videos and social media platforms to connect employers with younger, tech-savvy job seekers. Employers use the platform to create engaging video job postings distributed across popular channels like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat. The result? A transparent and modern hiring experience that resonates with Generation Z and Millennials.
This funding round is more than just an investment in Reelist’s growth; it’s a testament to the strength of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Hampton Roads. The round featured notable participation from the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC), which provided its second Commonwealth Commercialization Fund (CCF) grant to Reelist. VIPC’s ongoing support highlights the strategic importance of fostering innovation in Virginia’s burgeoning technology sector.
Reelist’s journey reflects the collaborative power of 757 Collab, a regional resource that includes programs like 757 Accelerate and 757 Startup Studios. As a graduate of 757 Accelerate, Reelist has benefited from mentorship, resources, and a supportive network that has propelled the company to national recognition. This success story underscores the mission of 757 Collab: to grow scalable businesses and amplify the innovation coming out of Hampton Roads.
“Reelist’s achievement shines a spotlight on Hampton Roads as a breeding ground for game-changing startups,” said a representative from 757 Collab. “This $3 million seed round is a win for the entire region, as it demonstrates how our collective efforts can create an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive.”
The support from VIPC and 757 Collab highlights the immense potential of Hampton Roads to produce high-growth startups. For a region working to establish itself as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, Reelist’s success serves as a powerful example of what is possible with the right mix of talent, resources, and collaboration.
Reelist’s next chapter will focus on scaling its operations, advancing its technology, and expanding its impact in the recruitment industry. As the company grows, so too does Hampton Roads’ reputation as a vibrant and supportive ecosystem for innovation.
This is not just a win for Reelist but for the entire region. The $3 million seed round showcases what happens when regional accelerators, forward-thinking investors, and groundbreaking entrepreneurs come together to push boundaries. Hampton Roads is not just keeping pace with innovation hubs nationwide; it’s setting its own unique standard for what’s possible.
