Y Combinator is an American technology startup accelerator founded in 2005. It has become one of the world’s most successful and influential accelerators, having helped launch more than 4,000 companies, including Airbnb, DoorDash, Stripe, Instacart, and many others.
Y Combinator provides seed funding to startups twice yearly in batches of up to 200 companies. Each company receives $500,000 in exchange for 7% equity. In addition to the funding, Y Combinator offers mentorship and guidance to help startups grow and succeed. The program lasts three months and culminates with Demo Day, where founders present their companies to a room full of investors.
The accelerator also runs Startup School, a free online course on starting a company. Through this program, entrepreneurs can learn from Y Combinator partners and alumni about topics such as fundraising, product development, marketing and more.
In addition to its core accelerator program, Y Combinator also runs Launch, an event showcasing new products from YC-backed startups every month or so. This event allows entrepreneurs to get feedback from potential customers and investors who may be interested in investing in their projects.
Y Combinator has been instrumental in helping shape the startup ecosystem by providing resources and support for entrepreneurs around the world. Its success has inspired other accelerators, such as Techstars and 500 Startups which have adopted similar models for funding early-stage startups.
Y Combinator is a powerful force within the startup community that helps bring innovative ideas to life through its funding model, mentorship programs and events like Launch and Demo Day.