Discover Startups vs FirstGlance

Discover Startups is a vetted directory and matchmaking platform for early-stage, product-based founders. Its free Directory gives startups a profile, visibility to investors, media, buyers and partners, and watchlist notifications. Investors, journalists, retail buyers and brand partners can search using filters such as stage, sector and location, then contact founders directly through their inbox without per-introduction fees. Submissions are reviewed to check that a startup is real, its founder can be reached and its data is honest; revenue and stage are not acceptance gates. The paid Matchmaker plan adds AI-powered matching across press, retail, investor and event opportunities, with curated options founders can pursue or pass on. Founders can edit profiles, pause matching for audiences and add audiences they want to reach. Matchmaker also includes a founder-only WhatsApp community, events and webinars. It is an invite-only beta: applications are reviewed by hand, invitations arrive in small batches, and billing starts only after an invitation. Matchmaker costs £49.99 a month once invited. Service businesses are not accepted.

FirstGlance connects startup founders with early-stage investors. Investors can search for startups using filters such as industry, stage, and location, save searches, and follow companies for updates on progress and traction. Founders decide what information to include in their profiles and can view analytics on profile views and engagement. Founders can connect with investors when ready, while investors can request information and schedule meetings. FirstGlance says founders can use verified metrics to build credibility. The platform is available on Android, iOS, and the web, with a free plan. FirstGlance Pro founders are offered more than $3 million in software credits and discounts across 270+ vetted tools, including Google Cloud, Notion, Segment, and Mixpanel. The company was founded in 2024 and is headquartered in the United States. Its privacy notice says it does not collect information from third parties, though it may receive social login profile information if users choose that option. The notice also says it may use Google Analytics and cookies or similar tracking technologies. FirstGlance reports having 100+ active early-stage investors and $1B+ in dry powder.