In a recent blog post, Y Combinator Managing Director Dalton Caldwell announced the latest update to the organization’s Request for Startups (RFS) list. The RFS is a tradition that began in 2009 and serves as a guide for entrepreneurs looking to start their next venture. This year’s updated list includes new areas of focus, including climate tech, AI technology, and spatial computing.
The Evolution of the RFS
Y Combinator has been updating its RFS list every few years since its inception in 2009. The organization seeks to identify emerging trends and technologies that have the potential to shape the future of business and society. In the past, YC has made targeted requests for specific types of startups, such as those focused on government technology or COVID-19-related solutions.
Climate Tech: A Growing Priority
One area that has gained significant attention in recent years is climate tech. The 2022 RFS update highlighted the importance of sustainable technologies and environmental innovations. In the new list, climate tech continues to be a key focus area for YC. This includes startups working on renewable energy sources, carbon capture and utilization, and sustainable infrastructure development.
The Rise of AI Technology
AI technology is another significant area that has been highlighted in the new RFS list. From machine learning (ML) applied to robotics to LLMs (large language models) for manual back office processes in legacy enterprises, YC is looking for startups pushing the boundaries of what is possible with AI.
- Machine Learning (ML): YC is interested in ML applications across various industries, including healthcare, finance, and education.
- Large Language Models (LLMs): The organization sees potential in LLMs for automating manual back office processes in legacy enterprises.
- Explainable AI: YC wants to see startups working on explainable AI, which can provide insights into the decision-making process of AI models.
Spatial Computing and the Future of Mixed Reality
The recent launch of Apple’s Vision Pro has sparked interest in spatial computing. YC is now hedging its bets that this emerging technology may deserve attention. Startups building for the mixed reality environment introduced by AR/VR headsets like the Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3 are encouraged to apply.
Enterprise Software and Resource Planning
Better "enterprise glue" and new enterprise resource planning (ERP) software are also areas of focus for YC. The organization sees potential in startups developing solutions that can integrate different systems and processes, making it easier for businesses to operate efficiently.
- Enterprise Glue: YC is interested in startups working on integrating different systems and processes within an organization.
- New Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software: The organization wants to see innovative ERP solutions that can help businesses streamline their operations.
Defense Technology, New Space Companies, and Bringing Manufacturing Back to the US
In addition to the areas mentioned above, YC is also interested in startups focused on defense technology, new space companies, and bringing manufacturing back to the United States. These sectors have significant growth potential and could benefit from investment and innovation.
Digital Currencies and Crypto Technologies
While digital currencies and crypto technologies did not make the new list, there is one request for stablecoin finance. This refers to digital currencies pegged to a fiat currency, such as the US dollar.
Conclusion
The updated RFS list from Y Combinator offers valuable insights into the organization’s focus areas for 2024. By highlighting emerging trends and technologies, YC aims to inspire entrepreneurs to start new ventures that can shape the future of business and society.
Applications for YC’s Summer 2024 Batch
Applications for YC’s Summer 2024 batch are now open, with an early admission deadline of February 20. The deadline for other applications is April 22. Entrepreneurs interested in starting a new venture should review the RFS list and consider applying to YC.
About the Author
Sarah Perez has been working as a reporter for TechCrunch since August 2011. She covers news on startups, entrepreneurship, and technology trends.
