[ablekh]

@dalton I have a couple of quick questions, if you don't mind. It seems that YC appreciates science-based (aka deep tech) startups. However, some deep tech startups require much more than three months to develop a solid MVP (say, a year or more). In such cases, 1) would YC still be interested in funding such venture and 2) would it still make sense to participate in Demo Day (by the way, is it mandatory?) or it could be safely skipped for some alternative options when the time is right (e.g., warm introductions to relevant VC firms and potential customers)? Also, what is your current stance on solo founders?

[dalton]

My colleague Jared put together some great advice for hard tech/bio founders and we talk about a number of the companies we have funded here: https://www.startupschool.org/videos/78 He talks specifically about what these companies do during the batch and fundraising milestones, etc

[ablekh]

Your prompt reply is much appreciated. Will certainly review the video. What about your current stance on solo founders?

[dalton]

I don't have much to add to all of the other YC-related information out there - I think having a cofounder is generally a good thing, but not every company we fund does.

[ablekh]

Fair enough. Thank you, again.