First Rate Ventures, the corporate venture arm of First Rate, Inc., today announced it has led the seed round in bQuest, a Denver-based Care Intelligence Platform purpose-built for financial advisors and their clients navigating aging, end-of-life, and after-loss transitions.
The partnership will embed bQuest’s AI Care Agents directly into advisor workflows, combining intelligent automation with human concierge support to guide families through aging, end-of-life, and after-loss transitions.
bQuest equips advisory firms with an integrated platform, a vetted national provider network, and white-glove assistance. This enables advisors to guide clients through life’s most complex transitions, helping protect relationships and assets when they’re most at risk.
“bQuest turns difficult life events into moments of service and loyalty,” said Marshall Smith, Managing Director of First Rate Ventures. “Pairing explainable AI with a curated care network gives advisors superpowers—adding value outside the traditional financial markets and planning.”
“This investment and partnership with First Rate accelerates our mission,” said Lauren Clough, Co‑Founder & CEO of bQuest. “Together we’ll bring the bQuest Care Agent to more advisors—empowering them to deliver trusted, timely guidance to families when it matters most.”
With First Rate Ventures as lead investor and strategic build partner, bQuest will accelerate development of its AI Care Agents, expand its national provider network, and scale its human concierge services—all seamlessly integrated within the advisor experience.
About bQuest
bQuest is the first tech‑enabled Care Intelligence Platform for financial services, helping advisors support clients through aging, end‑of‑life, and after‑loss transitions with AI‑powered guidance, a vetted national provider network, and human concierge support. Learn more at thebquest.com.
About First Rate Ventures
First Rate Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of First Rate, Inc., a global leader in WealthTech for over 30 years. With deep roots in investment reporting, trust platforms, and digital solutions, we’re leveraging our legacy to shape the future of FinTech. We back founders who are building solutions that serve advisors, investors, and communities— offering more than just capital. We offer access to expertise, global reach, and enduring partnership. Learn more at firstrate.com/ventures.
About First Rate, Inc.
First Rate, Inc. is a global financial solutions, services, and data partner. Founded in 1991, First Rate is headquartered in Arlington, Texas, and has offices in seven countries. First Rate is a privately held firm that serves global financial services firms, including wealth management, asset management, and bank and trust companies, with innovative financial technology. Delivering tailored solutions that enhance decision-making, strengthen client relationships, and create a lasting global impact, First Rate’s culture prioritizes giving back to the industry and local communities. Additional information can be found at FirstRate.com.
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Contacts
bQuest Contact:
Lauren Clough, CEO and Co-Founder | E: lauren@thebquest.com
First Rate, Inc. Contact:
E: PR@FirstRate.com | P: (817) 525-1900