Chatfuel is a privately held SaaS company that provides a no-code platform for building AI-powered chatbots and messaging automation across Meta-owned channels like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook Messenger, TikTok DMs, and website widgets. Originally known as one of the leading bot builders for Facebook Messenger, it has evolved into an “AI-native operating system” focused on helping service-oriented SMBs automate lead capture, appointment booking, and customer communication. chatfuel.com
Founded in 2015 and part of Y Combinator’s Winter 2016 batch, Chatfuel set out to make conversational commerce accessible without requiring coding skills. Its drag-and-drop builder, templates, and visual flows allow non-technical users to launch chatbots quickly, while built-in CRM-style contact management, segmentation, and broadcasting turn messaging channels into scalable marketing and sales engines. Over 7 million businesses have used Chatfuel since 2015, and the platform now powers more than a billion messages every month. chatfuel.com
In recent years, Chatfuel has doubled down on AI and vertical use cases, particularly for private healthcare, wellness, and beauty clinics that rely heavily on WhatsApp and Instagram DMs. Its Fuely AI engine, based on GPT-class models, automates FAQs, lead qualification, bookings, reminders, and follow-ups while handing off seamlessly to human agents in live chat when needed. Official partnerships with Meta and deep integrations with tools like Shopify, Kommo CRM, Google Sheets, Stripe, Calendly, and Zapier position Chatfuel as a central hub for messaging-driven customer journeys. chatfuel.com
Chatfuel is headquartered in San Francisco and operates as a remote-first team. Backed by investors including Y Combinator, Greylock-affiliated programs, and several venture funds, the company has raised roughly $1.62M in disclosed funding, including a $1.5M seed round in October 2025 to further develop its AI operating system for SMBs. With strong ratings on G2, Capterra, and TrustRadius, and a long track record with major brands such as Adidas, Levi’s, Nissan, TechCrunch, LEGO, and T‑Mobile, Chatfuel occupies a well-established position in the live chat and chatbot market, especially for Meta-centric customer engagement. cbinsights.com
