Y Combinator Enables Stablecoin-Based Investment for Startup Funding

03.02.2026

Y Combinator has announced that all startups accepted into its accelerator program will now have the option to receive their seed funding via stablecoin transfers, according to YC crypto partner Nemil Dalal.

Under YC's established standard deal structure, the accelerator invests $500,000 in exchange for 7% equity in accepted startups. This investment model is now being extended to blockchain infrastructure, supporting transactions on Base, Solana, and Ethereum networks, beginning with the upcoming spring cohort.

Dalal emphasized that stablecoin-based transfers offer significant advantages, particularly for founders operating in emerging markets where traditional banking infrastructure may be less efficient or accessible. The move represents a strategic alignment with YC's broader blockchain initiatives.

This development follows YC's partnership with Base and Coinbase Ventures announced last fall, aimed at encouraging entrepreneurs to develop blockchain-based solutions. The initiative reflects the renewed interest in blockchain technology across Silicon Valley, driven in part by the U.S. government's recent steps toward establishing more comprehensive and crypto-friendly regulatory frameworks for the digital asset industry.

The stablecoin funding option provides founders with increased flexibility in capital deployment while potentially reducing transaction costs and settlement times associated with traditional wire transfers.

Sources:
The Block - Y Combinator Stablecoin Funding
Y Combinator Standard Deal
Base Blog - Y Combinator Partnership
U.S. Congress Crypto Regulation Bill