How to get into Antler according to the founders who pulled it off

Here’s what founders had to say about why they applied to Antler…

1. Its alignment with their vision, plus the phenomenal support and great community.
2. Antler’s unique structure provided opportunities for venture capital-backed startups.
3. It provided the perfect environment for first-time founders to learn and build something scalable.
4. The program offered network expansion opportunities, especially in the Middle East.
5. Antler had an efficient process for connecting like-minded co-founders.

Here’s what the founders had to say about the structure of Antler’s application process…

1. It included three to five interviews, first with HR and then with partners.
2. The interviews provided them with the opportunity to share their story and potential ideas.
3. The interview rounds assess abilities, experience, and founder compatibility.
4. The application process included a practical business case assessment as part of the selection process.

Here are some tips from the founders on how to ace Antler’s application process…

1. Go into the interview with a clear startup idea and test the concept beforehand.
2. Be authentic and understand the context of questions asked during the interview.
3. Prepare by learning from other founders’ pitch decks on YouTube.
4. Familiarize yourself with Antler’s criteria and be prepared for specific discussion topics.
5. Be honest, passionate, and true to yourself.

Here’s what founders had to say about the structure of Antler’s program…

1. The program handled visa documentation.
2. Antler focused on quick co-founder match-making upon acceptance
3. The program had structured phases for building connections, team formation, ideation, and validation of startup concepts through master classes and mentoring.
4. It was intense and rewarding, with a focus on speed dating for co-founder matching, mental coaching, and tackling real-world problems.
5. Program included meetings and intense interactions to assess work ethics and interests, focusing on understanding peers and forming teams.
6. Antler provided clear information about investment terms, and offered structured milestones leading up to investment decisions.
7. The program assigned coaches based on specific needs, with weekly meetings for updates, advice, and guidance.
8. Program structure included training sessions, talks, and mentorship, with a partner providing weekly guidance on various startup aspects.
9. Antler provided access to a global network of professionals and ‘office hours’ for personalized advice, emphasizing the program’s comprehensive support.

Here’s what the founders had to say about Antler’s funding support…

1. Antler provided crucial early-stage funding, which significantly contributed to their startup’s growth and development.
2. Funding terms involved approximately 10-12% equity taken for a check size of around $150,000 depending on the program. 31% of this amount is received as a participation fee.
3. Antler followed up on seed rounds providing check sizes of around $25,000.
4. Out of the cohort of around 90 participants, only 15 to 20, representing 7 to 10 startups, typically secure funding.

Here’s what the founders had to say about finding their co-founders…

1. Many met their co-founder during Antler’s speed dating, with complementary skills in technical and commercial aspects, emphasizing the importance of a balanced team for funding.
2. They connected with co-founder over a shared passion, forming a partnership based on common frustrations and visions.
3. Some faced challenges finding a co-founder within the program, but ultimately successfully partnered with someone introduced by Antler’s network.
4. They engaged in dynamic activities to find a co-founder, including speed dating and weekly presentations, focusing on work style and vision alignment.
5. Many connected with their co-founder through an idea sprint exercise, bonding over shared values, and a common professional and personal vision.

Here’s what founders had to say about Antler’s benefits beyond the money…

1. Antler provided advice on fundraising, strategy and VC engagement.
2. The program’s vast global network and connections with industry experts helped grow startups quickly.
3. Antler’s endorsement adds significant value to initiate funding conversations.
4. Founders received reduced rates on premium products through connections to other accelerators, which added up in significant cost-savings.
5. The extensive learning opportunities, access to a network of experts, and tailored support in key business areas like branding and marketing strategy are a huge draw.
6. Antler made co-founder match-making easy, even with finding the right technical co-founder.
7. The program surrounded founders with dedicated individuals and left them feeling empowered.
8. Founders had easy access to advice and support from other successful startup founders backed by Antler.
9. Antler sped up the process of meeting a co-founder and refining their business plan, pitch deck, and idea.

Here’s what the founders had to say about their unique experiences within the program…

1. Experienced a moment of self-reflection, leading to a clearer understanding of personal startup ambitions and goals.
2. Felt overwhelmed by the choices of potential co-founders, but realized the importance of focusing on personal passion and tuning out distractions.
3. Discovered a sense of belonging and inspiration among like-minded individuals in the program, energized by their shared ambition and determination.
4. Learned the difference between a good business idea and scaling a venture, transitioning from a business to a scalability mindset with Antler’s guidance.
5. Realized that many in the entrepreneurial world are also figuring things out, gaining confidence in their journey despite uncertainties.
6. Experienced a breakthrough in user acquisition strategy, gaining over 100 new users in a week, boosting confidence, and playing a key role in their pitch.

Here are the founders’ final tips about Antler’s program…

1. Antler facilitates connections and access to capital, but founders must take responsibility for most problem-solving and hustling.
2. Take risks and step out of your comfort zone, success in entrepreneurship is more about courage than genius.
3. Understand the motivations for joining an accelerator, and consider your personal background and goals.
4. Be open to feedback as it leads to growth and improved ideas.
5. Seek conversations with alumni for insights, and understand your personal drive and seriousness.
6. Realize regardless of the outcome, you’ll get amazing learnings and access to a global network by joining Antler.
7. Be fully committed, as the program requires dedication and hard work to navigate challenges.
8. Approach the program with an open mind and without ego, ready to learn from accomplished peers, regardless of the idea’s complexity.