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Founders First is an early-stage venture capital fund established in 2012 and headquartered in New York City. The firm was founded by a team of operators who have built four venture-backed startups, which informs their founder-centric investment philosophy. This approach emphasizes not only providing capital but also offering strategic support to entrepreneurs throughout their journey.
As of now, Founders First has made approximately 157 investments, with a notable focus on pre-seed and seed stage companies. The fund has a diverse portfolio that spans various sectors, including fintech, IoT, and SaaS. Founders First has developed a reputation for its fast decision-making process, allowing founders to receive funding quickly and efficiently. The firm is committed to supporting its portfolio companies by leveraging its extensive network to assist in funding rounds and key hires.
Founders First invests primarily in early-stage companies, specifically targeting the pre-seed and seed stages. The fund is vertical agnostic, meaning it does not limit itself to specific themes or sectors. Instead, it believes that the best companies emerge from founders who possess unique market insights. Initial investments typically range from $25,000 to $100,000, with the flexibility to invest as low as $10,000 in oversubscribed rounds.
The firm emphasizes a founder-centric approach, which includes a fast decision-making process that minimizes friction for entrepreneurs. Founders First seeks to partner with innovative founders who are passionate about their ideas and are looking for not just capital but also strategic guidance. This supportive partnership model is designed to help founders navigate their growth and achieve their business objectives.
Founders First has built a diverse portfolio of 157 companies, showcasing its commitment to supporting early-stage ventures. Notable portfolio companies include:
In addition to these notable companies, Founders First has also invested in emerging startups such as FifteenTwenty, Kuto, Gathr, Oversoul, Vaunt, and Walnut, further demonstrating its broad investment strategy across various sectors.
Jeremy Levine: Managing Partner. Jeremy has extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, having co-founded multiple startups before transitioning to investing. His expertise lies in identifying promising early-stage companies and providing strategic guidance to founders.
Jordan Fliegel: Managing Partner. Jordan brings a wealth of knowledge from his background in technology and venture capital. He has a track record of successful investments and is known for his hands-on approach in supporting portfolio companies.
Samantha May: Marketing Executive. Samantha has a strong background in marketing and communications, helping to elevate the Founders First brand and connect with the startup community. Her role involves engaging with founders and promoting the firm's mission.
To pitch Founders First, founders should visit their website at foundersfirst.fund. It is recommended to include a concise overview of the startup, highlighting the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. Founders should expect a response within a week, as the firm prides itself on a fast decision-making process.
Warm introductions are preferred, but not mandatory. Founders should be ready to discuss their vision and how they plan to execute it, as well as any traction they have achieved to date.
As of April 2023, Founders First has continued to expand its portfolio, reaching a total of 157 investments. The firm has made significant strides in supporting early-stage companies across various sectors, including fintech, IoT, and SaaS.
In recent months, Founders First has been actively involved in funding rounds for several notable startups, further solidifying its reputation as a key player in the early-stage venture capital space. The firm remains committed to its founder-centric approach, emphasizing fast decision-making and strategic support for entrepreneurs.
What are Founders First's investment criteria?
Founders First focuses on early-stage companies in the pre-seed and seed stages. They are vertical agnostic and look for founders with unique market insights. The fund typically invests between $25,000 and $100,000, with flexibility to invest as low as $10,000 in oversubscribed rounds.
How can I pitch to Founders First?
Founders First encourages founders to submit their pitches through their website at foundersfirst.fund. It is advisable to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and the team behind the startup.
What makes Founders First different from other VC firms?
The firm emphasizes a founder-centric approach, which includes a fast decision-making process that allows for quick funding. Founders First aims to provide not just capital but also strategic support to help founders navigate their growth.
What is the geographic focus of Founders First?
Founders First primarily invests in companies based in North America, with a strong emphasis on startups located in New York City.
What is the follow-on investment strategy of Founders First?
Founders First is willing to provide follow-on investments in subsequent funding rounds, typically ranging from $50,000 to $100,000. They also utilize Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) for select portfolio companies, allowing for additional investments of $50,000 to $1 million.
How involved is Founders First post-investment?
Founders First aims to be a supportive partner, leveraging their networks to assist portfolio companies in funding rounds and key hires. They focus on building strong relationships with founders to help them succeed.
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