Antler
Antler is a global early-stage investor and startup generator that backs exceptional founders from inception. With a presence in over 30 locations worldwide, Antler has become one of the most active pre-seed investors globally, supporting founders through cohort-based programs and direct investments. The firm has invested in over 1,800 portfolio companies across every inhabited continent. 1
What makes Antler unique is its combination of global reach with local presence. Unlike accelerators that require you to move to a specific city, Antler operates in major innovation hubs including Singapore, London, New York, Sydney, Berlin, Stockholm, Toronto, and many more. This means founders can access Antler's global network while building in their home region. 1
How Antler Works
Cohort-Based Program: Antler runs twice-yearly cohorts in each of its locations. Founders apply to join a cohort, and if accepted, they receive funding, mentorship, and access to the global Antler network. The program typically runs several months and culminates in a demo day or follow-on funding. 6
Direct Investments: Outside of cohorts, Antler also makes direct investments in companies at the pre-seed stage. This gives flexibility for founders who may not fit the cohort timeline.
Global Network: Once you're in the Antler family, you have access to the entire global network of founders, mentors, and investors. This is particularly valuable for founders looking to expand internationally. 3
Investment Focus
Antler is sector-agnostic but has particular strength in:
AI and Technology: Antler has been heavily investing in AI companies and claims to have the world's fastest-growing portfolio of AI companies. Many portfolio companies are building AI-powered solutions across various industries. 1
What They Look For:
- Exceptional founders with the ability to execute
- Big problems worth solving
- Founders with unique insights or experience
- Global-minded entrepreneurs
Geographic Coverage: Antler operates in:
- Asia Pacific: Australia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam
- Europe: Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, UK
- Americas: Brazil, Canada, US
- Middle East & Africa: Kenya, Nigeria, UAE, Saudi Arabia
Notable Portfolio Companies
Antler has backed over 1,800 companies globally. Notable outcomes include:
- Airalo: eSIM platform that became the first unicorn from Antler's portfolio
- Lovable: AI-powered development platform
- Capsa AI: AI company
- Tactiq: Meeting transcription tool
- Reebelo: Sustainable e-commerce
Many portfolio companies have gone on to raise significant follow-on rounds from top-tier VCs. 2
Support for Founders
Beyond capital, Antler provides:
Mentorship: Access to successful founders, operators, and industry experts who can provide guidance throughout the startup journey.
Global Network: Connection to the broader Antler community of 1,800+ companies and 12,000+ founders. This creates opportunities for cross-border collaboration, customer intros, and hiring.
Follow-on Capital: Antler has additional funds (including Antler Elevate) to support companies through Series A and beyond.
Resources: Access to Antler's insights, research, and founder stories that help with strategy and execution. 3
How to Connect
Application Process: Apply through antler.co/apply. You can apply to any of their global locations. Each location runs its own cohort selection process. Choose the location that makes most sense for you. 1
Important: You do not need to relocate to join an Antler cohort. Many founders join remotely or stay in their home city while participating.
What Makes a Difference:
- Clear articulation of the problem you are solving
- Unique founder experience or insight
- Big vision and ambition
- Ability to execute
Pro Tip: Antler is particularly founder-friendly for first-time founders. They invest in people before product, so focus on your story and why you are uniquely positioned to solve this problem. Do not have a perfect pitch - have a compelling reason why you.
Timeline: Cohorts start roughly twice per year in most locations. Check the cohort start dates page to plan your application. 6
Location Strategy: If you have flexibility, consider which location gives you the best network for your industry. For example, Singapore is strong for Southeast Asia, London for Europe, New York for US market entry. 1
The application is competitive - thousands apply for each cohort. But if you are building something meaningful and are willing to put in the work, Antler can be a transformative partner. 5