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Y Combinator (YC) vs Techstars
Founders often weigh Y Combinator (YC) against Techstars. Here's how the two compare on money, terms, format and selectivity — and how to decide.
Side by side
| Y Combinator (YC) | Techstars | |
|---|---|---|
| Investment | $500K | $220K |
| Equity | 7% | 6% |
| Instrument | SAFE | SAFE |
| Program length | 3 months | 3 months |
| Location | San Francisco | Global |
| Remote | No | No |
| International founders | Accepted | Accepted |
| Stages | Pre-seed, Seed | Pre-seed, Seed |
| Applications | Multiple per year | Check website |
| Cohort size | ~200 | ~10 |
| Acceptance rate | ~2% | ~1% |
| Questions on the form | 29 | 26 |
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 $220K from Techstars.
- Techstars takes less fixed equity (6% vs 7%).
- Y Combinator (YC) is based in San Francisco; Techstars in Global.
- Techstars is more selective (about 1% accepted vs 2%).
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 Techstars if…
$220K investment. 50+ programs worldwide.
Global accelerator network with 50+ programs across industries and cities. Strong mentor-driven model. Each program has a different focus (fintech, AI, health, etc.). Pick the one that matches your startup.
How to apply to Techstars →FAQ
Is Y Combinator (YC) better than Techstars?
Neither is better for everyone. Y Combinator (YC) writes the bigger cheque: up to $500K, against $220K from Techstars. Techstars 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 Techstars?
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 Techstars?
Both are selective. Estimates put Y Combinator (YC) at about 2% and Techstars at about 1% of applicants accepted. Neither publishes exact figures.
Why choose? Draft both applications from one profile.
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