What Is MCP And How To Use It With 4Degrees
Learn what MCP is, when to use it, and how it can help you save time by working with your 4Degrees data in tools like Claude or ChatGPT.
MCP allows you to use your 4Degrees data inside tools like Claude or ChatGPT.
This gives you another way to explore your data, build lists, and prepare information without needing to manually export or recreate reports.
What is MCP?
MCP is a connection that lets tools like Claude or ChatGPT securely access your 4Degrees data.
It helps you bring your CRM data into workflows where you may already be doing research, writing, or analysis.
Important: MCP is currently read-only, meaning it can access your data but does not make changes to your records.
When should I use MCP?
MCP is most helpful when your task goes beyond what you would normally do inside 4Degrees.
- You want to combine CRM data with outside research
- You need a custom list or view
- You want to prepare summaries more quickly
If everything you need is already inside 4Degrees, the built-in AI Assistant may be the fastest option.
Common ways teams use MCP
Build custom lists quickly
Instead of clicking through filters, you can describe what you need.
Example:
Show me the retail companies we’ve spoken to in the last two years in Chicago
[Insert screenshot: example prompt]
Combine CRM data with research
Start with your 4Degrees data and build on it.
Example:
Find deals we haven’t engaged with recently and create a short briefing for each company
[Insert screenshot: research workflow]
Save time on reporting workflows
If your team exports data into Excel, MCP can help prepare it faster.
Example:
Summarize recent activity by company for a partner update
[Insert screenshot: reporting example]
Explore your data more naturally
- Which companies haven’t had recent interactions?
- What’s been happening with this account?
- Show me contacts in this region
Use cases by team
Venture capital and private equity
- Prepare company summaries faster
- Combine pipeline data with research
- Get ready for meetings more efficiently
Investor relations and LP teams
- Summarize relationship activity
- Answer one-off questions quickly
- Prepare updates without rebuilding reports
Investment banking and advisory
- Build targeted lists
- Prepare company briefings
- Combine relationship data with research
What MCP does not do yet
- It does not edit records in 4Degrees
- It does not create companies, contacts, or deals
- It does not replace the in-platform AI Assistant
Tips for getting started
- Start with a simple request
- Be specific about industry, location, or timeframe
- Break larger requests into smaller steps if needed
- Use MCP when your task involves multiple tools or deeper analysis
Frequently asked questions
Is MCP secure?
Yes. It uses secure authentication and your organization controls access.
Can MCP make changes in 4Degrees?
No. It is currently read-only.
When should I use MCP instead of the AI Assistant?
Use MCP when your work involves multiple tools or deeper analysis. Use the AI Assistant for quick tasks inside 4Degrees.