Entrepreneurs First (EF) is a global talent investor and accelerator that builds companies from exceptional individuals, often before they have a cofounder or idea. Founded in 2011 in London by Matt Clifford and Alice Bentinck, EF pioneered talent investing: matching high-potential founders, supporting them from ideation to first revenue, and backing them into Silicon Valley's top venture ecosystem across offices including London, San Francisco, and Bangalore.
EF invests early and on founder-friendly terms: an equity-free grant during ideation, up to $250K once a company forms, and up to $5M in follow-on through later rounds with continued support to Series B. The program combines cofounder matching, dedicated advisors, office space, $600K+ in partner credits, and a San Francisco Demo Day attended by 200+ partners from leading VCs.
EF's portfolio is collectively valued at over $16B, with companies typically raising $1–7M shortly after Demo Day from firms including Sequoia, a16z, Founders Fund, and Index Ventures.

Photo credit: Entrepreneurs First
Talent-First Model
Builds unicorn cofounding teams from scratch through screening, matching, and residential retreats — idea optional.
Up to $250K Investment
Equity-free ideation grant, then up to $250K at company formation plus up to $5M follow-on through Series B.
Silicon Valley Access
SF Demo Day with 200+ top VCs, U.S. market workshops, office space, and bespoke investor introductions.
Proven Portfolio
Companies collectively valued at $16B+, backed by Sequoia, a16z, Founders Fund, Index, and other leading firms.
Focus areas
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