Chen Meng
FirstOfficer is an intuitive, no-code AI agent platform that enables small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to automate their business processes without any programming knowledge.
Many SMEs still rely on fragmented software tools, manual workflows and isolated data silos in their day-to-day operations. This inevitably leads to inefficient processes, delayed decision-making and significant productivity losses. At the same time, the acute shortage of skilled workers exacerbates the problem: companies simply lack the IT resources, time and budget to implement complex and expensive automation solutions.
FirstOfficer tackles this challenge head-on. The platform translates complex business logic into intelligent, automated workflows via a visual interface. Existing data sources are seamlessly integrated and processes are linked across departments. Autonomous AI agents take over recurring tasks and serve as valuable decision-making support in day-to-day operations. This enables companies to create and flexibly adapt bespoke automations entirely independently, without relying on external developers.
The target audience comprises European SMEs that want to specifically increase their efficiency, reduce operational costs and remain competitive, but have not previously had access to complex AI or IT resources.
What are your biggest challenges at the moment?
My biggest challenges at the moment lie in strategically building a sustainable business model around the platform. A key hurdle is securing the first pilot customers and paying users in order to validate product-market fit based on real-world use cases in the SME sector. Closely linked to this is the development of B2B sales expertise and robust customer relationships.
At the same time, product development requires constant focus: the platform must be technically highly stable and mature, whilst maintaining the ‘no-code’ principle – that is, absolute ease of use. Strict GDPR compliance and seamless integration with existing legacy systems also play a business-critical role.
As a solo founder, I also face the personal challenge of driving forward product development, marketing, positioning, business development and strategic networking simultaneously, with limited financial and time resources.
What is your goal for the duration of the EXIST-Women programme?
My primary goal during the EXIST-Women programme is to develop FirstOfficer to market readiness and to finally validate the product-market fit in the SME sector. This includes, in particular, securing committed pilot clients with whom we can digitise real-world workflows and demonstrate measurable efficiency gains.
Alongside this, I will build a scalable sales and marketing strategy to generate initial recurring revenue and establish long-term customer relationships. Equally important to me is the targeted expansion of a professional network of mentors, tech experts and potential partners. By the end of the project period, FirstOfficer should be standing on a stable foundation – ready for the official market launch and further scaling.