When you think about global VC firms backing ambitious founders at the very earliest stages, Antler ranks among the top names you should know.

Founded in 2017 in Singapore by Magnus Grimeland, Antler set out to create a new type of fund, one that works with individuals before they even start a company. Instead of waiting for a polished pitch deck, Antler helps you build your venture from scratch.

Today, Antler operates in over 27 cities across six continents. You’ll find their programs running in major hubs like New York, London, Berlin, Sydney, Nairobi, and Jakarta. Each location customizes its offering slightly to match the local ecosystem while staying true to Antler’s global standards.

If you are an aspiring founder or an early stage startup looking to raise capital, understanding how Antler works can be a game changer for you.

 
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How Antler’s Incubator and Accelerator Program Works

Antler’s approach begins with sourcing individuals rather than companies. If you apply to the Antler program, you are evaluated primarily on your background, domain expertise, drive, and ability to execute.

It doesn’t matter if you are an experienced operator, a technical co-founder, or a recent graduate with a bold idea, Antler wants to hear from you. They pride themselves on building diverse cohorts filled with engineers, product managers, business leaders, and scientists.
 

Founder Residency Phase

After your acceptance into the Antler cohort, you enter what they call the “founder residency.” This phase typically lasts about ten to twelve weeks. During this time, you meet other entrepreneurs, validate ideas, form teams, build MVPs, and pitch for Antler’s first investment cheque.
 

Pre-Seed Investment

If your team impresses during the internal investment committee review, you secure pre-seed funding ranging from $100,000 to $150,000 in exchange for 10-12% equity.

Unlike many other VC firms that wait for traction before committing capital, Antler takes a bet on people.

 
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What is Antler’s Global Network Like?

The global nature of Antler also means you have a rare chance to plug into a truly international network. For instance, a cohort participant in Singapore may partner with an AI researcher from Amsterdam or an e-commerce specialist from Nairobi.

You get access to mentorship from seasoned operators, top-tier VCs, and advisors who have built companies that exited for billions of dollars.

One of Antler’s biggest strengths lie in its structured methodology.

Unlike traditional accelerators like Y combinator or Techstars that expect you to show up with a startup already running, Antler is comfortable with zero.

The program is broken into clear stages: ideation, validation, team formation, product building, and fundraising preparation.
 

Countries and Focus Areas for Antler invesment

Antler also runs a country-specific fund style that’s tailored to local market dynamics. For example, Antler East Africa focuses heavily on fintech, agtech, and healthtech, reflecting the region’s pressing needs.

While in contrast, Antler Australia and New Zealand are known more for their emphasis on climate tech and SaaS ventures.

Other countries that Antler operates in include Indonesia, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, UK, Brazil, Canada, US, Kenya, Nigeria, Middle East.
 
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What Industries Does Antler Prefer?

When it comes to sector focus, Antler keeps an open mind but prioritizes several key areas.

They are especially interested in startups building in fintech, healthcare, enterprise SaaS, consumer tech, climate and sustainability, and deep tech.

If you are working in AI, blockchain, clean energy, or health diagnostics, you may find Antler particularly receptive to your application.
 

How to Apply to Antler VC Fund

Applying to Antler follows a relatively straightforward process, but competition is fierce. The online application requires a CV, motivational answers, and sometimes a short video.
 

Interview and Selection Process

If you are selected for an interview, you will undergo behavioral and case style assessments. Antler looks for individuals who demonstrate grit, problem solving ability, leadership potential and strong domain expertise.

The intake size varies depending on the city. For instance, Antler New York accepts about 60-80 individuals per cohort, while Antler Nairobi’s cohort size might hover around 40-50 participants.
 

Antler VC Typical Cheque Size

Antler VC typically invests around $100,000 to $150,000 in pre-seed startups during its program depending on the region. In return, they take an equity stake ranging from 10% to 12%.

This initial investment supports founders in building MVPs, gaining traction, and preparing for follow-on rounds. Antler also reserves capital for follow-on investments in high performing portfolio companies through seed and Series A stages.

 
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Things to Know Before Joining Antler

Importantly, you should consider the costs. Some Antler locations provide a stipend during the initial phase before investment, but others do not. You need to factor in living costs if relocating to expensive cities like New York, London, or Singapore.
 

Finding a Co-Founder at Antler

One interesting element of Antler’s model is its commitment to co-founder matching. Many people enter the program solo, and Antler actively facilitates structured networking sessions to help you find a co-founder.

Research shows that startups with a balanced team, tech and business combined, are 230% more likely to raise seed funding. Antler tries to engineer that winning combination for you right from the start.
 

What Happens After Investment?

Post-investment, you remain part of their portfolio where they offer continued support through follow-on funding opportunities. Antler runs a separate growth-stage fund that backs high-performing portfolio companies into Series A and beyond.

You continue receiving support through structured workshops, office spaces, investor introductions, and PR services. Demo days and global expansion support also become available to you, allowing you to access broader markets.
 

Why Antler Adds Value for Founders

Choosing Antler also sends a signal to other investors. Being an Antler-backed startup indicates you have undergone a rigorous selection and building process. This credibility often opens doors with VCs that may otherwise be hesitant to fund first-time founders or early-stage ideas without traction.

Antler’s thematic bets in AI, Web3, sustainability, and digital health also provide additional opportunities. You can always check their regional websites for cohort-specific themes and tailor your application accordingly.
 

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Should You Apply to Antler?

Despite fierce competition, participating in the Antler program offers a rare and comprehensive route to building and scaling a startup globally. You join a curated network of some of the world’s most driven individuals.

You gain exposure to mentors who have built unicorns and exited companies successfully. You receive structured support and access to early capital at a stage where most investors prefer to sit on the sidelines.

If you are serious about turning your entrepreneurial ambitions into reality, applying to Antler may be one of the smartest moves you can make.
 

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