Y Combinator
Y Combinator is the most well-known startup accelerator in the world. Founded in 2005, YC has funded over 4,000 companies including Airbnb, Stripe, DoorDash, and Coinbase. The program runs three batches per year (Winter, Spring, Fall) and invests $500,000 in each accepted company. The 3-month batch includes weekly office hours with YC partners, group dinners with successful founders, and culminates in Demo Day where companies pitch to hundreds of investors.
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About the Program
Y Combinator is the most well-known startup accelerator in the world. Founded in 2005, YC has funded over 4,000 companies including Airbnb, Stripe, DoorDash, and Coinbase. The program runs three batches per year (Winter, Spring, Fall) and invests $500,000 in each accepted company. The 3-month batch includes weekly office hours with YC partners, group dinners with successful founders, and culminates in Demo Day where companies pitch to hundreds of investors.
Funding Structure
$125,000 on a post-money SAFE for 7% equity, plus $375,000 on an uncapped SAFE with a Most Favored Nation clause. Total: $500,000.
Who Can Apply?
- Founders at any stage, from idea to launched product
- No minimum revenue or traction requirement
- No incorporation requirement at time of application
- Founders from any country (global program)
- Solo founders welcome, though co-founder teams preferred
- Must be able to participate in the 3-month batch
What They Look For
- Founders with deep domain expertise in the problem they are solving
- Clear and concise communication (the application rewards brevity)
- Evidence of progress or ability to build quickly
- Large market opportunity
- Technical co-founders are an advantage but not required
- Genuine passion for the specific problem, not just chasing trends
What You Need to Apply
- Completed online application form
- Short founder video (1 minute)
- Pitch deck (optional but recommended)
- Basic information about your startup and team
How to Apply
- 1Go to ycombinator.com/apply and create an account
- 2Complete the application form with concise answers
- 3Record and upload a 1-minute founder video
- 4Submit before the batch deadline
- 5Wait for interview invitation (typically within 2-3 weeks)
- 6If invited, attend a 10-minute video interview with YC partners
Application Process
- 11. Submit online application with founder video
- 22. YC partners review all applications
- 33. Selected teams invited to 10-minute interview
- 44. Decision communicated within a few days
- 55. If accepted, sign SAFE agreements and receive $500K
- 66. Join the 3-month batch program
Important Dates
Applications open for each batch approximately 3-4 months before the batch starts. Winter 2027 applications expected to open October 2026.
Program Benefits
Selection Process
Online application, followed by a 10-minute interview with YC partners. Decisions communicated within a few days of interview.
Industries and Focus Areas
Geographies and Countries
How to Approach This Investor
Recommended pitch type: Online application (no cold email or warm intro needed)
Is This Program Right for You?
Notable Portfolio Companies
Mentors and Investor Access
Previous Cohorts
Running since 2005 with 4,000+ funded companies
How to Contact
Apply online at ycombinator.com/apply. No email application required.