First Rate Ventures has led a seed investment in Denver-based bQuest, a Care Intelligence Platform designed to help financial advisors support clients through aging, end-of-life, and after-loss transitions. The companies announced the fundraising and strategic partnership on Thursday, outlining plans to integrate bQuest’s AI Care Agents directly into advisor workflows.
The collaboration is expected to broaden the reach of bQuest’s technology while enhancing the value financial advisors provide to families during emotionally complex and financially vulnerable periods. The platform combines AI-driven guidance, a national network of vetted care providers, and white-glove human support to help advisory firms manage the full spectrum of aging and after-loss needs.
By embedding bQuest’s AI Care Agents into advisor processes, First Rate Ventures aims to expand the capabilities available to wealth managers beyond traditional financial planning. Advisors using the platform will be better equipped to maintain client trust, protect multigenerational relationships, and support continuity of assets at critical life moments.
With First Rate Ventures acting as both lead investor and strategic build partner, bQuest plans to accelerate development of its AI Care Agents, expand its national provider network, and scale its human concierge services. All enhancements will be integrated into a unified advisor experience, strengthening the platform’s role in helping firms navigate life-event transitions with clarity and care.
bQuest describes itself as the first tech-enabled Care Intelligence Platform built specifically for financial services, offering advisors AI-powered guidance, curated service partners, and human assistance. First Rate Ventures, the venture arm of First Rate, Inc., brings decades of WealthTech expertise and will provide strategic support alongside its capital commitment.
KEY QUOTES
“bQuest turns difficult life events into moments of service and loyalty. Pairing explainable AI with a curated care network gives advisors superpowers—adding value outside the traditional financial markets and planning.”
Marshall Smith, Managing Director, First Rate Ventures
“This investment and partnership with First Rate accelerates our mission. Together we’ll bring the bQuest Care Agent to more advisors—empowering them to deliver trusted, timely guidance to families when it matters most.”
Lauren Clough, Co-Founder & CEO, bQuest
