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Y Combinator (YC) vs South Park Commons
Founders often weigh Y Combinator (YC) against South Park Commons. Here's how the two compare on money, terms, format and selectivity — and how to decide.
Side by side
| Y Combinator (YC) | South Park Commons | |
|---|---|---|
| Investment | $500K | — |
| Equity | 7% | — |
| Instrument | SAFE | Varies |
| Program length | 3 months | — |
| Location | San Francisco | San Francisco |
| Remote | No | No |
| International founders | Accepted | Accepted |
| Stages | Pre-seed, Seed | Pre-idea |
| Applications | Multiple per year | Rolling |
| Cohort size | ~200 | — |
| Acceptance rate | ~2% | ~5% |
| Questions on the form | 29 | 11 |
Terms change between batches — confirm on each program's official site before applying.
Key differences
- South Park Commons reviews applications on a rolling basis, while Y Combinator (YC) runs fixed application rounds.
- Y Combinator (YC) is more selective (about 2% accepted vs 5%).
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 South Park Commons if…
Community + small checks. For founders still exploring.
Not a traditional accelerator — it's a community for people between things. Explore ideas with smart peers, get small checks when ready. Many SPC members go on to raise from top VCs.
How to apply to South Park Commons →FAQ
Is Y Combinator (YC) better than South Park Commons?
Neither is better for everyone. South Park Commons reviews applications on a rolling basis, while Y Combinator (YC) runs fixed application rounds. Y Combinator (YC) is more selective (about 2% accepted vs 5%). Choose by stage, sector, location and the terms you can accept — or apply to both.
Can I apply to both Y Combinator (YC) and South Park Commons?
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 South Park Commons?
Both are selective. Estimates put Y Combinator (YC) at about 2% and South Park Commons at about 5% of applicants accepted. Neither publishes exact figures.
Why choose? Draft both applications from one profile.
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