YC deadline in <2 weeks; Who's applying?
If you're applying, reply below with what you're building so we can cheer you on!
If you're doing a startup and not applying, why aren't you applying?
If I were starting a company today, I would 100% apply even though I've done it before with @Tandem (S19) for a few key reasons:
The partners help. A lot. (this isn't common. Most people who say they help startups are neutral or harmful)
The network is insane, especially for b2b companies. It will accelerate your G2M like nothing else.
You'll learn what real speed looks like, by grinding alongside the top early stage founders. Every time I talk to a current or recent YC company or go to the events, I'm reminded what top speed looks like. And I'm also reminded that the speed that start-ups are capable of gets faster every year, especially with AI.
As for hesitations...sometimes people balk at the dilution, but generally speaking, the higher price that startups command in their next round at Demo Day more than compensates.



Replies
Shegby
Is it possible to apply if you are the only founder (not technical) and there is no product yet?
And is it worth applying in this case?
Unveil Engine
Yes! I'm building Unveil, an AI powered, beginner friendly game engine to help build your dream game.
ngl sweating bullets trying to finish an MVP for a demo, but it's a somewhat large project
i applied last batch and didn't get in, but since I launched on Product Hunt where i got a waitlist with 100 signups!
I'm pumped to be surrounded by absolute cracked founders that'll push me to work harder than i am now. Plus i've never been to SF and it seems like a cool place.
https://unveilengine.com
Hello, we’re also applying to YC. Here’s our problem and solution:
Problem
Product teams deal with millions of reviews spread across many platforms. Going through them manually takes too long, is error-prone, and often misses important customer issues.
Solution
Loopado AI is a GenAI. it automatically collects reviews from places like Google Play, App Store, Trustpilot, forums, and CRM tools. It points out the main problems and user needs, creates weekly reports, and can open Jira tickets when needed.
Founders
I have been managing app reviews for 2 years, in total 7 years of customer service experience and business administration background
Co-founder: Full stack developer for more than 10 years.
Please do not hesitate to contact me through my linkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hurozanozbay/
Our website: https://loopado.app/
Most simple way to explain Loopado: Chat with your reviews, get instant insights, automate actions.
its bugggyyyyy cant save location on my profile so it doesnt let me submit
Phygital+
We in progress
Zealock
We're buildling @Zealock to simplify buying and selling directly on platforms people already use, starting with WhatsApp.
In just 2 steps, anyone can list a product or service. In 3 steps, buyers can search and find exactly what they need, all through a smooth, chat-based experience.
Think of Zealock as conversational commerce, done right. No downloads. No learning curve. Just seamless discovery and transactions over chat.
We're currently working on integrations with Telegram, X (Twitter), and Instagram too!
Launching next week ... Is this a safe bet for YC ?
https://zealock.com
Rajiv Ayyangar, thanks for the post!
It inspired me to finally create a YC account and turn on notifications. I’m based in Sri Lanka, so I’ll be keeping an eye on things until I can move to the States.
We’re actively improving our own product at the moment, excited to learn from the amazing launches here.
We will not be applying!
As the YC deadline approaches, it's definitely a moment for founders to reflect on their path!
For Orizon Analytics, while YC is undeniably a powerhouse accelerator, we've decided to carve our own path for now.
For context: Orizon Analytics provides powerful, intuitive stock investment analytics for everyone. We believe investing shouldn't be intimidating or exclusive, and our platform delivers a user-friendly experience with pro-grade insights designed specifically for individuals, not institutions.
As far as YC goes, here are our thoughts:-
We recognize the immense value YC offers, particularly with partner support, the incredible network, and the acceleration in understanding "real speed."
However, we firmly believe that YC is not the only route to success for every single startup.
For all founders out there, YC is a phenomenal option if it aligns with your specific needs and vision, but it's crucial to remember there are many successful companies that have achieved greatness without it. Think of giants like Instacart, Reddit, Buffer, Mailchimp, and GitHub (and many more)– all built remarkable businesses outside the YC ecosystem.
We're excited about our journey and the unique way we're approaching the market! Good luck to everyone applying, and we'll be cheering you on 🎉.