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Y Combinator (YC) vs 500 Global
Founders often weigh Y Combinator (YC) against 500 Global. Here's how the two compare on money, terms, format and selectivity — and how to decide.
Side by side
| Y Combinator (YC) | 500 Global | |
|---|---|---|
| Investment | $500K | $150K |
| Equity | 7% | 6% |
| Instrument | SAFE | Equity |
| Program length | 3 months | 4 months |
| Location | San Francisco | San Francisco |
| Remote | No | Yes |
| International founders | Accepted | Accepted |
| Stages | Pre-seed, Seed | Seed |
| Applications | Multiple per year | Rolling |
| Cohort size | ~200 | ~30 |
| Acceptance rate | ~2% | ~3% |
| Questions on the form | 29 | 56 |
Terms change between batches — confirm on each program's official site before applying.
Key differences
- Y Combinator (YC) writes the bigger cheque: up to $500K, against $150K from 500 Global.
- 500 Global takes less fixed equity (6% vs 7%).
- 500 Global can be joined remotely; Y Combinator (YC) expects you in San Francisco.
- 500 Global reviews applications on a rolling basis, while Y Combinator (YC) runs fixed application rounds.
- Y Combinator (YC) is more selective (about 2% accepted vs 3%).
- 500 Global is the longer program (4 months vs 3).
Choose Y Combinator (YC) if…
The gold standard. $500K for 7%. Changes everything.
The most influential startup accelerator in the world. 3-month batch program culminating in Demo Day. YC alumni network is unmatched — investors take your call just because you got in.
How to apply to Y Combinator (YC) →Choose 500 Global if…
$150K for 6%. The most global accelerator.
2,800+ portfolio companies across 80+ countries. Strong focus on growth metrics, customer acquisition, and scaling. Best for international founders who want US exposure.
How to apply to 500 Global →FAQ
Is Y Combinator (YC) better than 500 Global?
Neither is better for everyone. Y Combinator (YC) writes the bigger cheque: up to $500K, against $150K from 500 Global. 500 Global takes less fixed equity (6% vs 7%). Choose by stage, sector, location and the terms you can accept — or apply to both.
Can I apply to both Y Combinator (YC) and 500 Global?
Yes. Applying to several programs is normal, and many founders run applications in parallel. Most of the material — one-liner, traction, team, market — carries over between forms.
Which is harder to get into, Y Combinator (YC) or 500 Global?
Both are selective. Estimates put Y Combinator (YC) at about 2% and 500 Global at about 3% of applicants accepted. Neither publishes exact figures.
Why choose? Draft both applications from one profile.
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