Ask HN: Is there a downside to applying to both TechStars and YC?

15 points·obiefernandez··3 comments

The Summer session schedules for both programs are roughly aligned, so I'm wondering if it makes sense to apply for both. Of course, getting accepted to both would be a great problem to have, but other than that not sure I can think of any downsides. Any insight appreciated.

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One downside would be that getting rejected by both might incorrectly convince you that your idea isn't good, when it might really end up being something wonderful. Don't let rejection stop you from pursuing a great idea.

They have slightly different philosophies about how they work with their companies. They also have different feels from the perspective of the entrepreneurs. (Not even going to go near the flame bait of trying to sum up the diff --brief for the two companies.)

Also - the different TechStars have a different feel depending on which one you're involved in (e.g. Boston ain't Boulder ;) )

I would talk to a few of the more recent enrollees and a few of the graduates in both and ask them for their perspective.

Absolutely, apply to any of those if you feel any of them would be beneficial to you. Don't forget, that only less than 5% of applicants get accepted, so in a way it is a lottery (where you can influence the outcome of course).

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