Entrepreneur First Accelerator
Talent investor that funds individuals before they have a company. Pairs founders, gives a stipend, and invests at pre-seed.
Quick answer
Entrepreneur First offers eligible startups up to Varies in funding and resources, in exchange for equity. An application is required, and it is open to startups worldwide (pre-seed – seed).
Available programs
Stipend + pre-seed check
Entrepreneur First (EF)
~12-week FORM core program plus optional Bridge in SF. Find a co-founder, validate an idea, raise pre-seed at the end.
- Stipend during program
- Pre-seed investment on graduation
- Co-founder matching with vetted talent
- Cohort programming in 5 global hubs
- Investor network
Best for
Do you qualify for Entrepreneur First?
You likely qualify if
- You are an outstanding individual (technical depth or strong commercial edge) ready to found
- You can commit full-time to the ~12-week FORM program (a stipend covers living costs)
- You can accept up to ~$250K on founder-friendly terms (8% fixed, plus dilution on the optional second SAFE)
You won't qualify if
- You want to keep your current job or build only part-time
- You are unwilling to form a new co-founding partnership through EF's matching
Common rejection reasons
- Highly curated talent bar; many strong applicants are not selected
- Not every participant forms a company or passes Investment Committee for funding
How to apply for Entrepreneur First
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1
Check eligibility
For ambitious technologists and operators — no idea needed to apply. Cohorts in London, Paris, Bangalore, New York, and San Francisco.
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2
Prepare your application
Have your background and what you want to build ready.
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3
Apply via Entrepreneur First
Submit at apply.joinef.com.
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4
Join a cohort
Receive a stipend during the program and pre-seed investment if you form a company. This is an equity program.
Stacks well with
Founders who claim Entrepreneur First commonly pair it with these to build a bigger credit stack.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Entrepreneur First give startups?
Entrepreneur First provides eligible startups with up to Varies in funding and resources across its programs.
Does Entrepreneur First take equity from startups?
Yes — Entrepreneur First's program involves giving up equity. Review the terms before applying.
Who qualifies for Entrepreneur First?
Eligible startups generally must meet criteria such as: Ambitious technologists and operators (no idea required to apply); Cohorts in London, Paris, Bangalore, New York, and San Francisco.
Is Entrepreneur First free for startups?
Applying is free. Entrepreneur First provides up to Varies in funding and resources in exchange for equity.
How do I apply for Entrepreneur First?
1) Check eligibility, 2) Prepare your application, 3) Apply via Entrepreneur First, 4) Join a cohort. Full steps are on this page.
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