We back founders first.

We're a venture capital firm backing founders at the earliest stages of their careers and companies.
Investing in teams led by dropouts, Deep-Tech scientists, and founders working outside of tracked institutions.

Talent Discovery & Exceptional Results

We helped launch and run the Thiel Fellowship, working alongside Peter Thiel to identify and work with young founders building new technology. 1517 exists to scale that knowledge discovering exceptional talent.

Learn about our Thesis and Story
“You believed in me first."
Stephen Balaban, founder & CEO, Lambda
"1517 has financed the best education I've ever received."
Alex Schwarzkopf, co-founder & CEO, Pillar

Building a Global Community of Founders, Makers & Subversives

We work with young hackers, makers, scientists, and founders working outside of tracked institutions all over the world.

Meet our portfolio Companies
the next step?

Let's Chat

If you're a hacker, maker, or scientist working outside of universities and tracked institutions, we'd love to hear from you.
get in touch

Recent Articles & Media

July 22, 2018
Human Intelligence

What a VC Learned from Interviewing with the CIA

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June 11, 2018
How to Get a Killer Intro

Do's and Don'ts to Get Busy People to Do Intros for You

Read story
February 13, 2018
The Anti-Pitch Playbook

Tips on How to Tell Your Story with Evidence and Design (But not Deceit).

Read story
We back founders first.