Ask HN: Can you do 2 different YC applications in one batch?

#1

Post by consta » Wed, Mar 05, 2014, 7:00 AM UTC

We have two tempting ideas. One is in private beta, for the other one we have a working MVP. While we worked on idea 1 for quite some time and is more high-tech, idea 2 might have a higher paying customer base (not tested yet). Is it advisable to apply with both startups for YC?

Re: Ask HN: Can you do 2 different YC applications in one batch?

#2

Post by akrurnan » Wed, Mar 05, 2014, 7:28 AM UTC

best for YC staff to respond, but i would think yes - since YC gives a greater weightage to the quality of the founding team, than specific ideas. but then looking at it from another angle, wouldn't it send a message that you have a problem in staying disciplined and focused which is critically important to build a solid company?

in conclusion, my recommendation is to choose one among the two ideas - and then use the second as reference work to demonstrate your entrepreneurial prowess.

Re: Ask HN: Can you do 2 different YC applications in one batch?

#3

Post by consta » Wed, Mar 05, 2014, 7:43 AM UTC

akrurnan wrote: post #2

best for YC staff to respond, but i would think yes - since YC gives a greater weightage to the quality of the founding team, than specific ideas. but then looking at it from another angle, wouldn't it send a message that you have a problem in staying disciplined and focused which is critically important to build a solid company? in conclusion, my recommendation is to choose one among the two ideas - and then use the…

Thanks for this insight. You are right, it might send the wrong message but could also mean we pivot / go for that ideas which generates higher growth [1]. I guess it is a matter of communication.

[1] http://www.paulgraham.com/growth.html