First Degree Capital

High-Level Overview

First Degree Capital is a venture capital firm based in Amsterdam that focuses on backing ambitious founders at the earliest stages, particularly those building B2B SaaS products that transform how we work and collaborate. Their mission centers on providing not just capital but also talent and strategic resources to help founders grow faster and smarter. They emphasize supporting companies at the edge of breakthrough moments, especially in productivity, collaboration, and the future of work, with a strong focus on AI-driven innovation that augments human potential rather than replaces it[1][2][4].

Origin Story

Founded by Sinan Guler, who brings over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience across sectors like hospitality and recruitment, First Degree Capital emerged from a personal understanding of founders’ needs for access, speed, and real operational support. After successful exits with previous ventures, including Ambitious People Group and RocketX, Guler launched First Degree to provide founders with hands-on help rather than distant advice. The firm’s vision was sharpened at Visionaries Unplugged in Paris, where Guler engaged with leading tech figures, reinforcing the urgency to support European tech innovation, particularly in AI[3].

Core Differentiators

• Unique Investment Model: Focus on early revenue-stage B2B SaaS startups with check sizes between $250k and $400k, never leading rounds but acting as a close teammate to founders[1].
• Network Strength: Leverages a network of over 25,000 first-degree connections to provide founders with access to talent, experts, and strategic partners[3].
• Operating Support: Deep founder engagement with expertise in team chemistry, growth, and culture, offering hands-on support beyond capital[1][3].
• Track Record: Founded by an experienced entrepreneur with multiple successful exits, bringing practical insights to portfolio companies[3].
• Sector Focus: Strong emphasis on AI and the future of work, investing in startups that redefine productivity and collaboration through intelligent tools[2][4].

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

First Degree Capital rides the wave of AI transformation and the evolving nature of work, investing in startups that are shaping the future of productivity and collaboration. The timing is critical as AI technologies rapidly redefine business processes and human potential augmentation. By focusing on European founders and leveraging a strong network, the firm contributes to strengthening the European tech ecosystem, helping it compete globally in AI and SaaS innovation[2][3][4].

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Looking ahead, First Degree Capital is poised to deepen its influence by expanding platforms like 99problems, which connects founders with expert networks to solve challenges efficiently. As AI continues to evolve and reshape work, the firm’s focus on early-stage B2B SaaS startups positions it well to back the next generation of transformative companies. Their hands-on, founder-centric approach and strong network will likely enhance their role as a key enabler in Europe’s growing tech landscape[3].

In sum, First Degree Capital is not just a capital provider but a strategic partner dedicated to accelerating the growth of startups that are redefining how work gets done in an AI-driven world.