Antler: Supporting and Investing in Early-Stage Founders

Antler is a global startup platform that focuses on identifying and supporting early-stage founders. They have 27 operating locations across the world and receive over 130,000 applicants annually. Antler selects the top 2% of applicants, offering them a three-month program to validate their business models and provide initial capital. They make approximately 400 investments per year, leading pre-seed rounds and investing in subsequent funding rounds. Antler's success factors for entrepreneurs include having a spike of expertise, drive, and grit. The organization leverages technology to streamline operations, including a productivity tool, data platform, talent network, and perks platform. The decision-making process is decentralized, with region-specific partners leading investments while benefiting from centralized support in legal compliance, finance, marketing, and brand. Antler places a strong emphasis on front-loading efforts, hustling, and cultivating a mindset where failure is not an option. They also identify global themes across various geographies while recognizing unique opportunities in different markets.