YC launches Early Access Network: 30 startups, 100+ enterprise execs before Demo Day
ycombinator · x · 2026-10-31
Y Combinator has launched the Early Access Network, an invite-only program connecting enterprise executives with YC founders months before Demo Day, addressing the hardest problem for enterprise startups: landing the first customer.
- The inaugural event drew 30 companies and 100+ enterprise leaders; the program is now part of every YC batch
- At least four in-person events per year in San Francisco, starting with a session on deploying open models in the enterprise
- Free for executives who can evaluate and deploy AI products; investors including CVC teams are excluded
- YC facilitates introductions while commercial terms are negotiated directly; startups pursue SOC 2 compliance to meet enterprise requirements
- Applications for the W27 batch close November 2
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