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Y Combinator (YC) vs Entrepreneurs First (EF)
Founders often weigh Y Combinator (YC) against Entrepreneurs First (EF). Here's how the two compare on money, terms, format and selectivity — and how to decide.
Side by side
| Y Combinator (YC) | Entrepreneurs First (EF) | |
|---|---|---|
| Investment | $500K | $300K |
| Equity | 7% | — |
| Instrument | SAFE | Equity |
| Program length | 3 months | 6 months |
| Location | San Francisco | London, Singapore, Bangalore |
| Remote | No | No |
| International founders | Accepted | Accepted |
| Stages | Pre-seed, Seed | Pre-idea, Pre-seed, Seed |
| Applications | Multiple per year | Check website |
| Cohort size | ~200 | ~50 |
| Acceptance rate | ~2% | ~5% |
| Questions on the form | 29 | 9 |
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 $300K from Entrepreneurs First (EF).
- Y Combinator (YC) is based in San Francisco; Entrepreneurs First (EF) in London, Singapore, Bangalore.
- Y Combinator (YC) is more selective (about 2% accepted vs 5%).
- Entrepreneurs First (EF) is the longer program (6 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 Entrepreneurs First (EF) if…
Up to £250K. They help you find a co-founder first.
Talent-first investor. Pays you a stipend to find a technical co-founder, then invests in teams that form. If you're a strong individual without a co-founder, this is built for you.
How to apply to Entrepreneurs First (EF) →FAQ
Is Y Combinator (YC) better than Entrepreneurs First (EF)?
Neither is better for everyone. Y Combinator (YC) writes the bigger cheque: up to $500K, against $300K from Entrepreneurs First (EF). Y Combinator (YC) is based in San Francisco; Entrepreneurs First (EF) in London, Singapore, Bangalore. Choose by stage, sector, location and the terms you can accept — or apply to both.
Can I apply to both Y Combinator (YC) and Entrepreneurs First (EF)?
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 Entrepreneurs First (EF)?
Both are selective. Estimates put Y Combinator (YC) at about 2% and Entrepreneurs First (EF) at about 5% of applicants accepted. Neither publishes exact figures.
Why choose? Draft both applications from one profile.
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