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 Yet, many are still slowed down by outdated banking systems.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— shaping the future of finance where great businesses move on merit. Our mission is to revolutionize financial services for underserved SMEs and we are doing this by providing the financing and tools that help these businesses thrive. Over the last decade we have already transformed access to credit for thousands of businesses, and now we're building a full-stack neobank.
Our product philosophy
We build systems and tools to help businesses operate better and grow faster
From our online Banking Solutions 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
2026
Product expansion continues. Invoicing, corporate credit cards, and automated payroll processing will help SMEs with even more parts of their business.
2025
We officially launched our SME Business Banking product, introduced Future Salary Access (FSA) for employee salary loans, and initiated Solar Financing to help SMEs transition to sustainable energy.
2024
We successfully raised US$7 million in funding from International Finance Corporation (IFC) to expand our offerings for Filipino SMEs.
2023
Product expansion! Launch the pilot of our SME Business Banking product, and begin work on two new products (coming soon!)
2022
Close new $25m debt facility to fund the next phase of growth.Customer base doubles in 2022.
2021
Product evolves to our Business Credit Line making SME credit bigger, cheaper, faster, and more flexible!
2020
COVID nightmare for SMEs and First Circle!
Proud of our response: proactive customer restructuring, and zero layoffs (but significant pay-cuts for Leadership)
2019
Rapid growth to 1500+ customers gives us unique data to systemize our underwriting
2018
$6m Series A and $20m debt facility raised.
Strategic focus on B2B SMEs with PO & Invoice Financing product
2017
Accion invests in First Circle and we pass 250+ SME customers
2016
We’re up and running with our first 100 customers after raising $1m seed capital from 500 Startups and others.
We're led by a strong team
Patrick Lynch
Chris Burgess
Benedict Carandang
Josh O’Donnell
Christopher Abelarde
Bianca Baylosis
Alan Smyth
Sam Nuñez
We’re supported by a strong ecosystem
We create symbiotic relationships with fellow advocates of SME growth
OUR INVESTORS
OUR PARTNERS
of the Philippines
Commerce of the Philippines
Commerce and Industry
Commerce and Industry
Commerce and Industry
First Circle is trusted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). View certificate
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.
Our Commitments
How we take action on sustainability, governance, and social responsibility.
