John Bongaarts is a seasoned AI technology and product strategist, specializing in driving business growth and product innovation for startups, small, and mid-sized businesses. With a deep background in AI, product strategy, and B2B sales, he helps organizations navigate the complexities of emerging technologies to unlock competitive advantage and sustainable success. As the Founder of Chiptown Consulting, Bongaarts has served as a fractional leader and advisor to multiple companies, including Head of B2B Sales at Audialab, Head of Product at Oak.ai, and Strategic Sales & Marketing Consultant at Soliton Technologies, along with advisory roles for several other firms. His expertise spans product-market fit, scaling AI-driven products, go-to-market strategy, and investor engagement.
Through his consulting work, Bongaarts has shifted his focus from Fortune 500 AI-focused enterprise software product strategy to advising startups and mid-sized businesses on how to successfully engage with B2B products and services. His emphasis is now on enabling companies to position their products effectively, build scalable business models, and develop strategies for fundraising and investor engagement while bringing core knowledge of AI product scalability, governance, and responsible use. His ability to bridge the gap between technology and business execution makes him a sought-after advisor for companies looking to leverage AI in practical, high-value ways.
Bongaarts previously spent nearly 17 years at National Instruments (NI), where he rose to the position of Chief AI Technology Strategist within the CTO Office of NI Test & Measurement at Emerson. In this role, he spearheaded cross-organizational AI adoption strategies, focusing on high-value, secure and practical applications. His tenure at NI included leadership roles in product management, sales, and engineering, where he played a critical role in shaping go-to-market strategies and AI-driven product innovation.
Beyond technology, Bongaarts excels in aligning teams, synthesizing complex business challenges, and leading organizations through growth and transformation. His ability to craft and execute business strategies has made him a key partner for early-stage and growth-stage companies looking to scale effectively.
He holds dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Physics and Astrophysics from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and has received a Strategic Business Management Certificate from the Executive Education program at University of Texas. His system-level approach to problem identification and solution development, combined with extensive industry experience, enables him to drive meaningful impact across the businesses he advises.
With a career defined by strategic foresight, business execution, and AI-driven innovation, John Bongaarts continues to help companies harness technology for growth, positioning them for long-term success in an evolving marketplace.
Character
John Bongaarts demonstrates integrity and visionary leadership, fostering trust through transparent and direct dialogue and consistently driving responsible AI practices into organizations to balance risk and rewards.
Knowledge
With over 15 years of experience across high-tech industries, John Bongaarts possesses deep expertise in product strategy, AI product go-to-market, and B2B software sales.
Strategic
John Bongaarts excels at aligning technology initiatives with business objectives, driving organizational growth. He calls out the hard truths necessary to ground strategies in reality, which results in mutually coherent business model, product, technology, and go-to-market plans.
Communication
A skilled communicator, John Bongaarts effectively translates complex technical concepts for diverse audiences, fostering collaboration and driving stakeholder alignment.
