Side by side
Frontrun vs Startbase
Both stand on startup databases. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free trial APIWeb
Frontrun combines startup discovery signals with web-app alerts and programmatic access. Starter is limited to the web app, while API and MCP access are included with Pro.
Visit Frontrun Free plan Web
Startbase brings startup and investor directories together with editorial, event, job and reference resources. It is useful for discovery and information, but not for carrying out investments or fundraising.
Visit StartbaseThe facts
| Frontrun | Startbase | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Web | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Starter: $49 a month | Not published |
| Plans published | 3 | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | frontrun.vc | startbase.de |
| On startup databases | #22 of 26 | #18 of 26 |
Frontrun: what it does well
- Tracks more than 2,000 curated accounts
- Includes live feed, reports, watchlist, and alerts
- API provides follow-graph intelligence
- Pro includes API and MCP access
- Starter includes a 7-day free trial
What to know first
- Starter excludes API and MCP access
- Pro includes 10,000 monthly credits that expire
- Hosted MCP endpoint is in beta
Startbase: what it does well
- Free registration and member contributions without a paywall
- More than 10,000 verified startup profiles
- Filtered directory of more than 350 investors
- Watchlists track selected companies in a news feed
- Includes events, jobs, articles and knowledge resources
What to know first
- Users cannot raise capital or invest directly
- Profiles outside its eligibility criteria may be rejected
- No export access is listed
Alternatives to Frontrun Alternatives to Startbase The whole list