Y Combinator Startup Podcast

How Do Billion Dollar Startups Start? | Office Hours

69 snips
Nov 17, 2024
The humble beginnings of billion-dollar companies reveal that success often starts with hands-on adaptation and resilience. Founders should embrace early actions, like creating demos, even without a customer base. Key traits for success include grit and effective communication, along with a commitment to authenticity. The journey isn’t linear; overcoming failures and embracing pivots are crucial for growth. Uncovering these attributes can illuminate the paths taken by top entrepreneurs.
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ANECDOTE

Solugen's Humble Beginnings

  • Solugen, a hydrogen peroxide company, started by making small batches in a garage.
  • They brought a beaker of their product, representing most of their production, to their YC interview.
ADVICE

Doer Mentality

  • Have a bias for action; don't wait for permission.
  • Be comfortable not having all the answers and figuring things out as you go.
ANECDOTE

CaptivateIQ's Start

  • CaptivateIQ, a sales compensation software company, started with demo software and no customers.
  • They convinced YC partners by highlighting two major, but flawed, competitors.
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