Entrepreneurs First 2026

Entrepreneurs First 2026 is a six-month pre-seed accelerator program administered by Entrepreneurs First that invests in exceptional individuals before they have a formed team or an initial idea. The program requires full-time participation in global hubs like London, New York, or San Francisco, and is backed by notable figures and entities including Reid Hoffman, John Collison, Demis Hassabis, and Greylock Partners. Accepted participants receive up to a $250,000 initial investment, structured as a $125,000 post-money SAFE at eight percent equity alongside an optional $125,000 uncapped SAFE. Applications for the Spring 2026 cohort close on February 8, 2026, with the structured program officially commencing in April 2026. This resource is intended for ambitious early-career technologists and domain experts seeking to find a co-founder, develop a globally scalable technology startup, and prepare for institutional fundraising.

You do not need a co-founder to apply to Entrepreneurs First. You do not even need an idea. What you need is ambition, intellectual curiosity, and the drive to build something significant. EF's unique approach focuses on matching exceptional individuals with ideal co-founders first, then helping teams build companies from the ground up.

The program operates across multiple global hubs including London, Bangalore, Singapore, and Paris. The 2026 second-round application deadline is May 1, 2026.

At a Glance

• Investment: Up to $250,000 pre-seed equity investment
• Talent Grant: Equity-free living stipend (non-repayable)
• Program duration: Approximately 26 weeks across two phases
• Deadline: May 1, 2026 (second round)
• Locations: London, Bangalore, Singapore, Paris, and other global hubs
• Requirements: Individual founders only - no co-founder, company, or idea required

The Two-Phase Structure

EF operates in two distinct phases. First, you spend approximately 12 weeks in your chosen local hub, paired with other ambitious founders seeking co-founders. During this intensive period, you work with mentors, attend workshops, and validate ideas while getting to know potential co-founding partners. At the end of this phase, you pitch to EF's Investment Committee for your first pre-seed investment.

If accepted, high-potential teams move to the second phase: the LAUNCH program in San Francisco. This 12-week intensive combines the Bay Area's investor density with hands-on support, pitch coaching, and direct introductions to venture capitalists. EF covers visa assistance and relocation logistics.

Why EF Is Different

Most accelerators accept formed teams. EF is different - they invest in individuals at a stage when most accelerators will not even look at you. This pre-team approach eliminates the most common founder failure mode: bad co-founder relationships. By helping you find and vet your co-founder within the program, EF substantially increases the likelihood of long-term team compatibility and success.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through the EF website. The selection process evaluates you as an individual - your creativity, resilience, and vision - not a team, idea stage, or market validation. Early selection rounds fill quickly, so apply as early as possible.