Ask HN: Who got into YC without an MVP? Using just an idea

2 points by throwaway425933 2y ago ↗ HN

Did anyone here get into YC with just an idea? Why do you think YC accepted you with just an idea? Is it industry experience? Academic credentials? Or is it because of connections?

What is your story? I talked to various folks and it seemed like MVP is a must.

5 comments

[ 15.0 ms ] story [ 127 ms ] thread

[deleted] 2y ago ↗

(comment deleted)

colesantiago 2y ago ↗

I don't think YC does this anymore, if they still do, you would probably be need to be part of the Harvard / Stanford / FAANG / Banking / Ivy League / Oxbridge clique.

throwaway425933 2y ago ↗

Please see my other comment. They say they do fund with just an idea. But I agree with your sentiment. Thats why I am asking :)

The28thDuck 2y ago ↗

I’m pretty sure their philosophy is that ideas are a penny a pound, it’s proven execution (an MVP) that gets attention.

throwaway425933 2y ago ↗

From their FAQ, https://www.ycombinator.com/faq

No, it would be a mistake to wait to apply. On average, *40% of the companies we fund in each batch are just an idea*. Most don’t have any revenue.