YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

If you want to start a startup, you should just start now instead of waiting to become a domain expert. You can become an expert while working on your idea.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

When discovering and vetting new ideas, look for problems in your life and the lives of those around you. Consider what you want the first line of your Wikipedia article to say, as every startup has the potential to be your life's work.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

It's better to focus on something you're deeply passionate about rather than trying to impress others with your startup idea. If you're excited about your idea, don't worry if it sounds silly to others.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

YC emphasizes that being a solo founder is challenging. While it's generally better to have a co-founder, YC has accepted solo founders if they present unique insights and demonstrate competence.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

When evaluating a startup application, YC looks for unique insights on user acquisition and the founder's competence. Having traction and a clear understanding of your market is crucial.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

Startups are hard for everyone, and being a single founder requires you to be exceptionally capable, as you have to handle all aspects of the business yourself.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

Starting a company is an emotional roller coaster, and having someone to share the experience with can help you get through tough times.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

In the early days, focus on product retention rather than just growth. If your retention rate is low, prioritize improving your product before trying to scale.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

When assessing growth rates, consider how long you've been working on your project and whether your progress is impressive compared to others in your field.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

In YC applications, I look for unique insights on customer acquisition and how well founders can communicate their ideas during interviews.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

I look for evidence that founders are action-oriented and have actually built something, rather than just asking for permission to work on their startup.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

Having evidence of having shipped a product and gained customers makes your application significantly stronger than just polishing your application without real progress.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

There's no such thing as being too early or too late to apply to Y Combinator; we can help companies at all stages.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

If you're not successful in your first application to Y Combinator, you can apply again without any negative consequences.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

Many successful founders have applied to Y Combinator multiple times before being accepted, so don't hesitate to apply again.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

I wish someone had told me how rewarding starting a company can be, as it can lead to some of the best experiences of your life.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

Letting go of the nitty-gritty tasks is crucial as your company scales; it's important to learn what to manage and prioritize.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

In Silicon Valley, people are often willing to help, so don't hesitate to ask for assistance when you need it.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

Don't rest on your laurels; always strive to build something meaningful and avoid complacency after achieving initial success.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

Create your own path in startup culture instead of conforming to external expectations; design your work environment to suit your needs and passions.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/03/17

@ Y Combinator

It's important to have trusted people to talk to about challenges in your startup journey, rather than feeling isolated in your struggles.

Q&A with YC Partners at Startup School SV 2016

Takeaways