Entrepreneurs First

Activity from announced rounds

Activity in this selectionOct 24, 2026 · Industrial tech · Jan 1, 2026

Entrepreneurs First backs individuals before a company exists, helping them find a co-founder, develop an idea and form a business with a path into the US startup market.

Its matching process introduces candidates screened for complementary skills and working styles. Founders test potential partnerships through retreats, local cohorts and company-building work, with a dedicated adviser and a San Francisco-based partner.

EF offers an equity-free grant during ideation and up to $250,000 of investment after company formation. Support for the US phase includes office space, customer development, incorporation and relocation guidance, fundraising preparation and a San Francisco Demo Day.

Sources
Rounds participated in
4
Confirmed lead rounds
0
2 roles undisclosed
New companies
4
First participation on record · 0 follow-on
Funding in participating rounds
$86M
4 disclosed · full round size, not this investor’s share

By stage

Seed2
Series B1
Series C+1

By primary sector

Industrial tech2
Defense tech1
Healthtech1

By country

United Kingdom3
United States1

Rounds

4 in this selection
Helicon

Automates carbon-fiber textile handling to produce composite parts for drones and other unmanned systems.

$16.5MSeed
Participant
CloudNC

CloudNC builds AI software for precision machining, helping machine shops develop CNC programs and quotes faster while keeping machinists in control of final decisions.

$20MSeries B extension
Participant
Seamflow

Develops AI software to streamline audits and approvals for testing inspection and certification organizations

$4.5MSeed
Role not disclosed
Automata

Builds AI-ready lab automation platforms for life sciences

$45MSeries C
Role not disclosed