Y Combinator's "Request for Startups"

Summer 2025 Edition

1. AI-First Companies

YC is pushing for "full-stack AI companies." Instead of selling AI tools to industries like law or healthcare, they're encouraging founders to build entire AI-driven firms that compete directly with traditional players.

2. Designer-Led Startups

With coding becoming more accessible, YC believes designers should lead startups. Their user-centric approach and aesthetic sense are crucial in creating products people love.

3. Voice AI Revolution

Phone interactions haven't changed in decades. YC sees a massive opportunity in developing voice AI that can handle customer service calls, making interactions seamless and human-like.

4. AI in Scientific Research

Many scientific tools are outdated. YC is looking for startups that apply AI to accelerate discoveries in fields like chemistry and materials science.

5. AI Personal Assistants

The dream of a true AI personal assistant is closer than ever. YC wants startups to create AI that doesn't just organize tasks but completes them, learning from your habits and preferences.

6. Healthcare Administration AI

A significant chunk of healthcare costs stem from administrative tasks. YC is interested in AI solutions that can automate data extraction and entry, streamlining operations.

7. AI-Powered Education

Education hasn't changed much, but AI offers a chance to create personalized learning experiences. YC is keen on startups that can make learning more interactive and tailored.

8. Next-Gen Robotics

Robots have been limited by perception and judgment. With advancements in AI, YC sees potential in developing software tools that make robots more adaptable and useful in various industries.

9. AI Home Security

Home security systems are ripe for innovation. YC is looking for startups that use AI to enhance safety, making systems more proactive and intelligent.

10. Internal AI Agents

Imagine every employee having their own AI assistant to handle repetitive tasks. YC is interested in infrastructure that allows for the creation of these internal agents.

11. Independent AI Research

YC was an early backer of OpenAI and wants to fund more independent AI research labs. They're open to supporting long-term, open-ended research projects.

12. Voice Email Management

Managing emails can be tedious. YC envisions voice assistants that can help users triage emails, draft replies, and manage schedules, all through voice commands.

AI Business Ideas

1. Full-Stack AI Startups

Why sell AI tools when you can build an entire business around them? Think AI-powered law firms or clinics that outpace traditional ones.

2. Designers as Founders

Designers, it's your time to shine! Use your eye for detail and user empathy to launch startups that people love to use.

3. Voice AI Revolution

Tired of robotic phone menus? Create AI that handles customer calls so naturally, people won't know it's not human.

4. AI in Scientific Research

Bring AI to the lab bench. Help scientists accelerate discoveries in chemistry, biology, and materials science with smarter tools.

5. AI Personal Assistants

Turn to-do lists into done lists. Build AI that doesn't just remind you but actually completes tasks on your behalf.

6. AI for Government Automation

Help governments save money and time by automating paperwork and processes with AI solutions.

7. Public Safety Tech

Develop tools like smart cameras and data systems that assist law enforcement in solving crimes more efficiently.

8. Next-Gen Manufacturing

Reimagine factories with automation and robotics, making manufacturing faster, cheaper, and closer to home.

9. Stablecoin Infrastructure

Build the backend systems that enable businesses and banks to use digital currencies seamlessly.

10. LLMs for Chip Design

Use AI to design better, more efficient computer chips, speeding up innovation in hardware.

11. AI-First Fintech

Create financial tools powered by AI that offer smarter budgeting, investing, and lending solutions.

12. Space Infrastructure Startups

As space becomes more accessible, develop the logistics and support systems that make satellite launches routine.

13. AI-Aided Engineering Tools

Design intuitive engineering software that leverages AI to simplify complex tasks for professionals.

14. Empowering Non-AI Jobs

Focus on building tools that enhance jobs AI can't replace, supporting roles that require a human touch.