Chptr Raises $5.5M Series A from CityRock and Media Partners

For media operators, the partnership provides a fresh source of programming. For Chptr, it removes the need to build distribution from scratch. Chptr said the funds will support technology development and partnership expansion. The company declined to disclose revenue or valuation. It also declined to say how many funeral homes it works with or how many households its media partners reach.

Chptr said it chose end-of-life content as a starting point because it is a high-touch event families want to share broadly. The same distribution model can apply to other community milestones, such as obituaries and birth announcements, the company said. Chptr partners with funeral homes across the United States, coordinating directly with families.

CityRock, a venture capital firm focused on media and technology, led the round. Tribute Technology, a provider of funeral home software, also participated. The strategic partners include iHeartMedia, the largest radio broadcaster in the U.S., and Sinclair, one of the largest television station owners. Hearst, which owns newspapers and magazines, also joined.

Most funeral homes do not have the skills or equipment to produce video tributes that meet broadcast standards. Chptr's service fills that gap. By handling production and distribution, Chptr allows funeral directors to offer a premium service without added work. For families, the service means a loved one's memorial can be seen by hundreds or thousands of people across a region, rather than only by those who attend a service. Chptr said this helps communities gather and honor lives.

The $5.5 million round is modest for a Series A. Chptr said it will use the capital to scale its platform and deepen relationships with funeral homes and media partners. The company said it plans to expand into other community milestones in the future, without providing a timeline.