KN

Kirsty Nathu

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

I look after all of Y Combinator's finances and assist startups with their financial questions.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

A strong YC application articulates the idea concisely, avoiding vague marketing jargon, and demonstrates a significant market opportunity.

KC

Kate Courteau

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

We look for the same qualities in nonprofit teams as we do in for-profit teams, including clarity on their idea and the ability to execute.

KC

Kate Courteau

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

YC's nonprofit program has evolved, and we have learned that being surrounded by energetic for-profit startups is a significant advantage for nonprofit founders.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

We have received many applications from hardware and biotech companies, and we are adapting our approach to support their longer growth timelines.

EI

Elizabeth Irans

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

Biotech and medical device companies have shown success in the YC program, benefiting from focused milestones during the three-month period.

EI

Elizabeth Irans

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

Y Combinator is playing a significant role in funding young entrepreneurs in the biotech space, allowing them to advance their discoveries.

JL

Jessica Livingston

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

Working with your spouse in a startup can be beneficial if you have distinct roles and avoid competition, but it's essential to prioritize your relationship over the business.

JL

Jessica Livingston

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

It's common for founders to co-found companies with their spouses, and many find it enjoyable, but it's crucial to set boundaries to maintain a healthy relationship.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

Having a co-founder is beneficial because it allows for constant feedback and a second opinion on decisions and drafts.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

Equity splits among founders should generally be more or less equal to avoid future conflicts, as significant mismatches can lead to resentment and issues down the line.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

It's crucial to discuss equity early and openly among founders to ensure everyone feels the split is fair and representative of their contributions.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

Founders often make the mistake of focusing on past contributions during equity discussions instead of considering future work and potential.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

There's a diverse range of companies being started by women, with no specific type dominating, and more women are applying with various ideas.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

The goal is to have more successful female founders so that young women can see role models in tech and entrepreneurship.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

Being a solo founder is challenging due to the workload and emotional ups and downs, making it harder to succeed without a co-founder for support.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

Building a prototype as a solo founder is a great start, but hiring additional help will be necessary for long-term success.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

The average age of Y Combinator founders is around 30, with a range from 20 to the late 60s, indicating a wide diversity in age among applicants.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

Many founders who go through Y Combinator are parents, and while it's challenging, it is possible to balance startup life with family responsibilities.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

Female founders often struggle with self-promotion and taking credit for their achievements, which can hinder their ability to attract investors and build their companies.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

To effectively promote yourself, it's important to acknowledge your contributions and be proud of your work, even if it feels awkward at first.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

Getting comfortable with self-promotion takes practice; the more you explain your accomplishments, the more natural it becomes.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

Working with founders and witnessing their journeys through successes and challenges is incredibly inspiring and fulfilling.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

The energy and enthusiasm of the community at Y Combinator is contagious, making it a great environment for founders and partners alike.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

YC is at the forefront of making startups a more common career choice, which is inspiring as more people consider entrepreneurship.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

The supportive community at YC, where alumni and partners readily respond to inquiries, is a significant reason for its appeal.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/24/15

@ Y Combinator

The conference was a success, and attendees are encouraged to stay connected and continue building their companies after the event.

YC Panel at Female Founders Conference 2015

Takeaways