Entrepreneurs First (EF) is a global program that backs individuals first and supports them in building startups from scratch, including finding a cofounder, developing an idea, and raising initial funding.
The program works with individuals at the very beginning of their founding journey. Participants may have an early idea, be exploring a direction, or apply without a cofounder or company. EF focuses on selecting individuals with strong potential and then helping them form founding teams and build companies during the program.
Founded in 2011 by Alice Bentinck and Matt Clifford, EF operates globally with offices in London, Paris, Bangalore, New York, and San Francisco.
How the program works
Participants join as individuals and gain access to a pool of potential cofounders screened for skills and behaviour. The program includes a residential kickoff retreat, structured events, and ongoing guidance on cofounder matching and testing early ideas.
Founders work within a cohort at one of EF’s global offices and take part in talent events such as build retreats and hackathons. The program also provides one-on-one support from advisors and partners, including help shaping ideas, building products, preparing for fundraising, and entering the U.S. market.
Participants receive access to workshops, investor preparation support, introductions to investors, and the opportunity to pitch at a San Francisco Demo Day attended by venture firms.
Within weeks of Demo Day, EF companies typically raise between $1M and $7M from venture investors.
Investment and support
- an equity-free grant during the ideation phase
- up to $250K in investment once a company is formed
- potential follow-on funding of up to $5M in later rounds
- over $600K in credits from technology partners
- office space for nine months in London, Bangalore, and San Francisco
The program also offers support with incorporation, relocation, fundraising preparation, and investor introductions.
Network and investors
EF is backed by a network of founders and investors including Founders Fund, Greylock, Reid Hoffman, Patrick and John Collison, Demis Hassabis, Mustafa Suleyman, Taavet Hinrikus, and others.
Advisors and speakers connected to the program include founders and operators such as John Collison, Adam D’Angelo, Eric Schmidt, Demis Hassabis, Kevin Hartz, Daniel Gross, Nat Friedman, and Girish Mathrubootham.
EF companies have collectively reached valuations of over $13B and include startups backed by major venture firms such as Sequoia, Andreessen Horowitz, SoftBank, and Khosla Ventures.
Program locations and upcoming cohorts
EF runs programs across multiple regions.
Europe
- Bridge Residency in San Francisco – Spring 2026 (starts April 2026)
- Bridge Residency in San Francisco – Summer 2026 (starts July 2026)
- London Program – Fall 2026 (starts September 2026, followed by time in San Francisco)
United States
- Funding and fellowships with residencies in San Francisco
India
- Bangalore Program – Fall 2026 (starts August 2026, followed by time in San Francisco)
Programs are full-time and in-person, with participants expected to relocate to one of EF’s hub cities during the program.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and individuals can apply without a cofounder.