Entrepreneur First

Entrepreneur First (EF) is a London-based talent investor founded in 2011 by Matt Clifford and Alice Bentinck. EF pioneered the concept of investing in individuals pre-team and pre-idea, a model they call "talent investing." The program has created over 600 companies worth $11+ billion combined, with 5,000+ alumni worldwide.

Alice Bentinck became CEO in December 2023 when Matt Clifford stepped down to focus on AI opportunities (he now chairs EF). The organization is backed by notable investors including Reid Hoffman, the Collison brothers (Stripe), Greylock Partners, and Founders Fund.

EF evaluates individuals, not companies. They look for "outliers" who have done unusual things and demonstrated exceptional abilities relative to peers. Candidates are assessed on: challenges convention, drive to achieve, followership, clarity of thought, technical knowledge, and commerciality.

Cohorts are composed of roughly 50% technical founders (CTOs) and 50% commercial founders (CEOs). EF helps match complementary skill sets. Strong deep tech emphasis: AI/ML, advanced materials, biotech, blockchain, quantum computing, robotics. 18 deep tech companies created in France alone in 2019.

EF provides up to $250K in funding ($125K via post-money SAFE at 8% equity, plus $125K from Transpose Platform for SF-relocating teams). Initial talent investment of GBP 6,000 upon signing with no equity if a company isn't formed.

The program runs in two 12-week phases: FORM (cofounder matching and idea development) and LAUNCH (product building and fundraising prep, SF-based). Founders get desk space, mentor access, venture partner guidance, and connections to top-tier VCs including Sequoia, a16z, and SoftBank. All companies incorporate as Delaware C-corps.

<p><strong>What are Entrepreneur First's investment criteria?</strong></p><p>Entrepreneur First invests in exceptional individuals with entrepreneurial potential, focusing on those who may not yet have a business idea or team. The firm looks for individuals with unique advantages and the ability to build impactful companies.</p><p><strong>How can founders apply or pitch to Entrepreneur First?</strong></p><p>Founders can apply through the Entrepreneur First website at <a href="https://apply.joinef.com/">apply.joinef.com</a>. The application process involves submitting details about their background and entrepreneurial aspirations.</p><p><strong>What makes Entrepreneur First different from other investors?</strong></p><p>EF's unique approach focuses on investing in talent before they have a business idea, providing support through cofounder matching and access to a vast network of resources and partnerships.</p><p><strong>What is the geographic scope of Entrepreneur First's investments?</strong></p><p>Entrepreneur First operates globally, with hubs in North America, Europe, and Asia, including key locations like London, Paris, Bangalore, New York, and San Francisco.</p><p><strong>What is the typical fund size and check size for investments?</strong></p><p>Entrepreneur First manages a fund size of $158 million, with check sizes ranging from $55,000 to $250,000 for pre-seed investments.</p><p><strong>What kind of post-investment involvement does Entrepreneur First have?</strong></p><p>EF provides ongoing support through its network of advisors, access to exclusive partnerships, and opportunities for follow-on funding, helping founders navigate the early stages of their startups.</p>