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

2 pointsthrowaway4259334 comments

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.

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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.

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 :)

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

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.

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