Y Combinator

Program Type

Accelerator

Headquarters

Mountain View, California

Focus

Sector Agnostic

Overview

Y Combinator created the template every other accelerator follows: a fixed-length programme, a standard investment on standard terms, a cohort of companies going through it together, and a demo day at the end.

Its influence extends beyond its own portfolio — the SAFE instrument, now used industry-wide, was created by Y Combinator to simplify early-stage financing.

Program Structure

Three-month programme run in batches, twice yearly
Standard investment on published, non-negotiated terms
Weekly dinners, office hours with partners, and group sessions
Demo Day presenting to an invited investor audience
Lifelong access to the alumni network and internal tools

What They Look For

Founding teams above all — particularly technical founders who ship
Evidence of rapid iteration rather than a finished product
A large potential market, even if the current wedge is small
Clarity of thought and speed of response in interview
Willingness to relocate for the programme where required

Notable Portfolio

Companies they've backed.

Raising after a programme?

Global Capital Network connects accelerator graduates with investors ready for the next round.

Explore Opportunities All Accelerators

Overview

Program Structure

What They Look For

Companies they've backed.

Explore related programmes.

Raising after a programme?