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We’re building a new financial meritocracy for Filipino businesses and setting the pace for Southeast Asia.

Small and medium enterprises power the economy, handling over 10 million transactions daily and more than 300 million supplier payments monthly.

Yet, many are still slowed down by outdated banking systems. Fintech is rewriting the rules: replacing slow processes with real-time tools and paperwork with digital platforms.

At First Circle, we’re driving that shift— giving businesses the tools they need to move, compete, and win on merit.

Our product philosophy

We build systems and tools to help businesses work smarter and faster
From our online Smart Banking platform for managing cash flow and unlocking capital, to our Solar solution that cuts energy costs and turns rooftops into assets, we provide tools that give businesses speed, clarity, and long-term control.

And we’re just getting started— continuing to craft solutions that adapt with businesses, anticipate challenges, and unlock new possibilities.

Our History

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2016

We’re up and running with our first 100 customers after raising $1m seed capital from 500 Startups and others.

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2017

Accion invests in First Circle and we pass 250+ SME customers

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2018

$6m Series A and $20m debt facility raised.

Strategic focus on B2B SMEs with PO & Invoice Financing product

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2019

Rapid growth to 1500+ customers gives us unique data to systemize our underwriting

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2020

COVID nightmare for SMEs and First Circle!

Proud of our response: proactive customer restructuring, and zero layoffs (but significant pay-cuts for Leadership)

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2021

Product evolves to our Business Credit Line making SME credit bigger, cheaper, faster, and more flexible!

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2022

Close new $25m debt facility to fund the next phase of growth.Customer base doubles in 2022.

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2023

Product expansion! Launch the pilot of our SME Business Banking product, and begin work on two new products (coming soon!)

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2024

We successfully raised US$7 million in funding from International Finance Corporation (IFC) to expand our offerings for Filipino SMEs.

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We're led by a strong team

Patrick Lynch

Patrick Lynch

Chief Executive Officer
Chris Burgess

Chris Burgess

Chief Investments Officer
Benedict Carandang

Benedict Carandang

VP for External Relations
Rhys McCoy

Rhys McCoy

Director of Operations
Josh O'Donnell

Josh O’Donnell

VP of Finance
Christopher Abelarde

Christopher Abelarde

Head of Product Operations
Bianca Baylosis

Bianca Baylosis

Head of Risk Operations
Alan Smyth

Alan Smyth

Head of Acquisition
Sam Nuñez

Sam Nuñez

General Counsel

security is our priority

Our Investors

Our PARTNERS

First Circle is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). For concerns, you may contact SEC at (+632) 8818-5554 or crmd_publicassistance@sec.gov.ph.