Y Combinator

The most influential startup accelerator — $500K investment, 3-month program, network for life.

Y Combinator runs Y Combinator, a Seed-stage program (Winter 2026) running in 2026 over 12 weeks. The most influential startup accelerator — $500K investment, 3-month program, network for life.

Teams work in person and finish with a demo day alongside mentors, operators, and investors on the fundamentals of building a venture-scale company.

Open to international founders building an early-stage company at the seed stage. Selection is competitive — teams are evaluated on founding-team strength, market opportunity, product traction, and long-term ambition.

• Investment: $500,000
• Equity taken: 7%
• Program length: 12 weeks
• In-person program with dedicated workspace
• Demo day in front of leading VCs and press
• Global alumni network and warm introductions to follow-on investors
• Structured curriculum, workshops, and 1:1 mentorship from operators
• Legal, hiring, and go-to-market support throughout the program

Apply online: https://www.ycombinator.com/apply