First Advantge
By First Advantage
First Advantage is a global leader in background screening, identity, and verification solutions, serving more than 80,000 customers across over 200 countries and territories. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, the company processes more than 190 million screens annually and maintains a proprietary database with over 900 million records. Its mission is to help organizations hire smarter and onboard faster by delivering innovative, technology-driven solutions that manage risk and enhance the hiring process.
Founded in 2003, First Advantage has rapidly evolved into the world’s largest background screening provider. The company’s growth has been driven by a combination of organic expansion, technological innovation, and strategic acquisitions. Its IPO in June 2021 marked a significant milestone, providing access to public capital markets and further fueling its expansion. Revenue has shown steady growth, with $763.8 million reported in 2023 and projections of up to $832 million for 2025.
First Advantage went public on the NASDAQ Global Select Market in June 2021, raising capital through the sale of 25.5 million shares at $15.00 each. As of May 2025, the company’s market capitalization stands at approximately $3.03 billion, reflecting its strong position in the risk management and business solutions sector.
First Advantage offers a comprehensive suite of background screening services, including identity verification, criminal record checks, employment and education verification, drug and health screening, credit checks, executive screening, continuous monitoring, social media screening, and more. Its Profile Advantage® platform provides a mobile-first, applicant-centric experience, while RightID™ delivers advanced, multi-layered identity verification to combat fraud and deepfakes. The company also offers bundled solutions that integrate screening, onboarding, and tax credit services, all supported by seamless integration with leading HR and applicant tracking systems.
Strategic acquisitions have played a key role in First Advantage’s growth. Notable deals include the purchase of Corporate Screening (enhancing healthcare and higher education offerings), MultiLatin (expanding Latin American operations), Infinite ID (strengthening digital identity verification), and most recently, Sterling Check Corp. for $2.2 billion in 2024.
First Advantage is committed to continuous innovation, leveraging AI and machine learning to streamline operations and enrich user experiences. The company’s latest features include instant oral drug screening, advanced tax credit integration, and enhanced compliance engines that adapt to evolving regulations. Its 2024 Global Trends Report demonstrates a data-driven approach to understanding market needs and shaping future product development.
First Advantage’s culture is rooted in transparency, integrity, collaboration, and accountability. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central values, supported by employee resource groups and a cross-functional DE&I committee. The company fosters a supportive, innovative environment where employees are empowered to be authentic and are encouraged to grow through programs like the award-winning SOAR leadership development initiative. Community engagement is also emphasized through the FA Cares volunteer program and global mentorship initiatives.
First Advantage serves a diverse client base that includes major corporations, small and medium-sized businesses, and organizations in regulated industries such as healthcare, transportation, finance, and education. Its solutions are used by employers, property managers, and staffing agencies to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient hiring processes. The company maintains a strong community presence through annual customer conferences, thought leadership events, and active engagement with both clients and employees.
