Matt Donovan, President & Founder of Seventh Compass, Inc.
1. Tell us about your business; and what is your business philosophy?
Seventh Compass develops custom software and technology for the web and mobile devices.
Since 2003, we have produced dozens of custom software systems for clients. We have also built our own products, including: txtsignal, a private, bulk text messaging system; and Quibble, a custom service platform that connects customers and businesses using text messages.
Seventh Compass, Inc. was founded on seven principles: Honesty, Innovation, Creativity, Learning, Attention, Simplicity, and Integrity. Our seventh principle, Integrity, is our driving compass.
2. Why are you passionate about your commitment to United Way’s Community Investment Fund?
Well, I'm passionate about my pursuits, but being able to support my community is very important to me. Of course, there are only so many hours in a day. It takes an organization like United Way for me to channel my impulse to contribute and improve my community. Partnering with United Way helps me be 100% certain that my commitments are going to those in need.
3. What is something interesting or surprising that most people don’t know about you?
That I'm passionate about mountain bike racing and I have worked my way towards earning my Expert race license. And, I love astronomy.
4. What would your older self tell your younger self?
I would say, “So, believe what your Papaw always taught you. Believe those 10 words that govern your whole life –‘If it is to be, it is up to me.’” He was always right about that.
Small businesses play a critical role in maintaining a thriving local economy. They are no less important to the success of United Way, as we endeavor to improve lives through our work in education, income, and health. Our Small Business Partners are an important, growing family of donors, who are vital to helping us meet the needs of our community.
To learn more about how you and your business can support United Way, contact Chris Wells at cwells@unitedwayncfl.org or (352) 316-0666.