Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
firstminute capital is a venture capital firm established in 2017 by Spencer Crawley and Brent Hoberman. Headquartered in London, the firm manages approximately $500 million in assets under management (AUM) and is supported by a network of over 130 unicorn founders. The team consists of 14 investors and operators dedicated to backing European founders at the seed stage, particularly in technology sectors.
Since its inception, firstminute capital has evolved into one of the most active seed funds in Europe, with a portfolio that spans various sectors including AI, fintech, and SaaS. The firm has successfully raised multiple funds, with the first fund being oversubscribed at $85 million and the second fund totaling $111 million. The third fund is currently in the process of final closing, with expectations of exceeding $100 million.
firstminute capital specializes in investing in pre-seed and seed-stage companies across a diverse range of sectors, including artificial intelligence, deep tech, health tech, fintech, and climate technology. The firm typically writes checks ranging from £1 million to £3 million, positioning itself as the first check into promising startups. Their investment strategy emphasizes a founder-first approach, seeking out talented entrepreneurs capable of attracting top-tier talent to their missions.
The firm primarily focuses on European and UK-based startups but remains open to exceptional founders from around the globe. This broad geographic scope allows firstminute capital to tap into a wide array of innovative ideas and business models, enhancing their portfolio's diversity and potential for growth.
firstminute capital has built a substantial portfolio of 244 companies, showcasing its commitment to supporting early-stage startups. Notable portfolio companies include:
Brent Hoberman: Co-Founder & Managing Partner, known for founding lastminute.com and his extensive experience in entrepreneurship.
Spencer Crawley: Co-Founder & Managing Partner, previously with Goldman Sachs and DMC Partners, brings a strong financial background to the firm.
Lina Wenner: Partner with expertise in early-stage investments and operational support.
Sam Endacott: Partner focused on technology investments and founder support.
Michael Stothard: Principal with a background in venture capital and startup growth.
Adriana Vitagliano: Principal specializing in operational excellence and strategic guidance.
Lorcan Delaney: Principal with a focus on technology and market trends.
Min Nolan: Chief Operations Officer, overseeing operational strategies and processes.
Anaïs Benazet: Head of Community and Events, fostering connections among founders.
Abby Hughes: Operations Manager, ensuring smooth operational workflows.
Steve Crossan: Venture Partner with a wealth of experience in venture capital.
Ben McCloskey: Finance Manager, responsible for financial oversight.
Tim Brierley: Finance Director, managing financial strategies and reporting.
To pitch firstminute capital, founders should visit their application page at firstminute capital's application page. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. Founders can expect a response within a few weeks, and warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory.
In January 2026, firstminute capital made its latest investment in Corvera, a company specializing in business and productivity software. This investment is part of their ongoing strategy to support innovative startups across various sectors.
firstminute capital continues to be recognized as one of the most active seed funds in Europe, with a total of 244 investments to date, reflecting their commitment to backing ambitious founders and technology-driven solutions.
Q?
What are the investment criteria for firstminute capital?
A: firstminute capital invests in pre-seed and seed-stage companies across sectors like AI, fintech, and climate technology, typically writing checks between £1 million and £3 million.
Q?
How can founders apply or pitch to firstminute capital?
A: Founders can submit their pitch through the application page available at firstminute capital's application page.
Q?
What makes firstminute capital different from other funds?
A: The firm is distinguished by its founder-first approach and its extensive network of over 130 unicorn founders, providing portfolio companies with valuable operational expertise and strategic support.
Q?
What is the geographic scope of firstminute capital's investments?
A: The firm primarily focuses on European and UK startups but is open to exceptional founders from around the world.
Q?
What is the typical post-investment involvement of firstminute capital?
A: firstminute capital actively supports its portfolio companies with guidance on company strategy, hiring, fundraising, and business development.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.