Spring 2026 BatchSpring 2026 Batch
Sector AgnosticPre-seedSeed

Y Combinator — Spring 2026 Batch

Seed funding + mentorship in SF, April–June 2026.

Organizer: Y Combinator
Deadline: February 10, 2026 (in 5 hours)
Categories: Accelerator, Funding
Global
Back to All Opportunities

Y Combinator has opened applications for its Spring 2026 batch, one of the most well-known global accelerator programs for early-stage startups. The program combines seed funding, structured mentorship, and access to an extensive founder and investor network. Below is a structured overview of the program, its format, and key application details, presented as a neutral listing for founders exploring accelerator opportunities.

Program Overview

  • Y Combinator is accepting applications for its Spring 2026 Batch.
  • The batch is scheduled to run from April to June 2026.
  • The program takes place in person at Y Combinator’s campus in San Francisco.
  • Companies are funded as soon as they are accepted, rather than waiting for the batch to begin.
  • Founders can also apply ahead of time through Early Decision for future batches.

Application Process

  • Applications must be submitted online through Y Combinator’s application portal.
  • Startups that apply before the regular deadline are guaranteed a decision by 13 March 2026.
  • Applications submitted after the deadline may still be reviewed, but response timelines are not guaranteed.
  • Promising applicants are invited to interview with Y Combinator partners, typically via video conference.
  • Interviews are usually conducted in February and March, with decisions often made the same day.
  • All interviewed teams receive detailed feedback, regardless of the final decision.

Key Dates and Deadlines

  • On-time application deadline:
    • 9 February 2026 at 8:00 PM PT
    • Converted deadline: 10 February 2026, 05:00 GMT+1
  • Decision notifications for on-time applicants: By 13 March 2026
  • Batch duration: April–June 2026

Program Structure and Experience

  • The batch begins with a three-day, in-person kickoff in San Francisco.
  • Founders participate in regular meetups and group sessions throughout the program.
  • Each company is assigned a dedicated YC General Partner:
    • General Partners are experienced founders themselves.
    • They work closely with a small, hand-selected group of startups.
    • Weekly meetings and direct communication channels are provided.
  • Companies are organized into small peer groups, similar to a house model:
    • Groups meet weekly, including shared dinners.
    • The structure encourages both professional collaboration and personal connections.

Mentorship and Community

  • During the batch, founders hear from experienced startup leaders and alumni.
  • Past speakers and returning founders include teams behind companies such as OpenAI, Airbnb, Stripe, and DoorDash.
  • Startups gain access to the global YC alumni community, known for ongoing peer support.
  • Introductions are facilitated to founders and experts who can help address specific challenges.

Fundraising and Post-Program Support

  • Toward the end of the batch, YC helps startups connect with its investor network to raise additional funding.
  • Support does not end after the three-month program:
    • Y Combinator continues to assist founders over the lifetime of their companies.
    • Alumni remain connected through an active, long-term community.

The Y Combinator Spring 2026 batch represents a structured accelerator opportunity for early-stage startups seeking funding, mentorship, and global exposure. With a defined application timeline, in-person programming in San Francisco, and long-term alumni support, it remains a notable option for founders evaluating accelerator programs for the upcoming year.