Deadline: 9-February-2026
The Y Combinator program is a three-month intensive startup accelerator designed to help early-stage companies rapidly improve their products, expand their user base, and increase fundraising options.
The focus areas, objectives, priorities, and themes of the program include startup acceleration, product development, user growth, fundraising preparation, intensive mentorship, networking with fellow founders, alumni, investors, and speakers, creating highly motivating conditions for founders, maximizing founder potential, preparation for Demo Day, and financial investment through Y Combinator’s standardized funding structure.
During the three-month YC program, startups of all stages benefit from an environment entirely focused on their growth and success. The program fosters an intense, immersive atmosphere where founders are surrounded by mentors, peers, alumni, and investors who are all invested in helping the company succeed. This environment encourages extraordinary motivation and productivity, often described by founders as the most productive period in their professional lives.
In terms of funding, Y Combinator invests $500,000 in each accepted startup under standard terms. This investment is structured through two separate safes: $125,000 on a post-money safe in exchange for 7% equity and $375,000 on an uncapped safe with a Most Favored Nation provision. This funding supports the company in scaling operations, enhancing products, and preparing for future fundraising rounds.
The YC program culminates in Demo Day, where founders showcase their progress to investors. While YC’s support continues after the three-month cycle through its alumni network, the initial 11 weeks are considered crucial for driving significant advancements in both product development and company growth.
For more information, visit YC.
