On the TechTO stage ×1
First seen on the TechTO stage in 2025. Every talk is searchable — ask the archive about Brad ↗
In their words
The definition of give first is being willing to put energy into a system without knowing what you're going to get back.
It's not altruism. You expect to get something back, but you don't know when, from whom, over what time period, in what form, and in what magnitude.
Mentorship is somebody who's willing to engage with you in a give first way. They're willing to put energy into you, into what you're working on, without knowing what they're going to get back.
More from TechTO ×5
Around the web ×3
Quick answers
Who is Brad Feld?
Brad Feld is a US venture capitalist and author. He co-founded the startup accelerator Techstars (2006) and the VC firm Foundry Group (2007), and wrote books including Venture Deals and Give First: The Power of Mentorship.
What does Brad Feld mean by "Give First"?
He defines it as being willing to put energy into a system without knowing what you'll get back. He stresses it is not altruism — you expect a return, but not when, from whom, or in what form (cD2VrSPtoWA, 3:05).
What did Brad Feld speak about at TechTO?
During Toronto Tech Week 2025, he sat down with Matt Golden of Golden Ventures for a TechTO fireside on his book Give First, mentorship, and building in Canada.