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Simplifying Startup Operations for Visionary Founders
We are passionate about empowering visionary founders like you to build world-changing companies by simplifying the complex scaling journey.
Our experienced team offers a strategic, high-touch partnership to tech founders and CEOs ready to scale from $1M to $10M+ ARR. Through our founder-first approach and battle-tested operating systems, we help you streamline operations, clarify your vision, and overcome the immense scaling challenges—transforming your startup into a sustainable, high-growth powerhouse.
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Mariya Valeva
Founder & Strategic Scaling Partner
Meet the Founder
FounderFirst was born from Mariya's decade-long journey working side by side with visionary founders. Through these collaborations, she experienced firsthand the sleepless nights, team growth challenges, investor pressures, and the constant fear of running out of cash—common struggles for many founders. Determined to create a smoother path to scaling, she combined her hands-on experience with a master's in management from Harvard. This blend of practical know-how and academic insight empowered her to develop a high-touch solution, ensuring founders wouldn't have to navigate these obstacles alone.
With over a decade of experience in operations and finance, Mariya realized that sustainable growth couldn't be achieved with a one-size-fits-all approach. Each startup's unique dynamics required tailored solutions at every stage. This insight led her to develop custom strategies that seamlessly integrate into each business's operations.
Mariya's journey began in growth and operations roles at Seed & Series A VC and PE-backed startups. Over the years, she has helped SaaS and tech B2B & B2C companies achieve significant milestones, transforming from fledgling ventures to powerful scaleups. Beyond her work with FounderFirst, Mariya collaborates with founder communities at Techstars, Harvard Innovation Labs, 500 Global, and Y Combinator, ensuring that clients are supported by the best in the industry.
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WE ARE
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