In an exclusive interview with Fortune, Y Combinator partner Dalton Caldwell discussed the release of YC’s new Requests for Startups (RFS), which outline the types of startups the company is interested in. The RFS, which were last published in 2018, cover 20 different categories, including applying machine learning to robotics, bringing manufacturing back to America, and finding a way to end cancer. Caldwell emphasized that the RFS should be seen as inspiration for potential founders, rather than a strict guide.
The RFS tradition dates back to 2009 and serves as a snapshot of what investors were optimistic about in the past. Caldwell noted that founders often feel pressured to work on something fashionable, and the RFS can give them permission to pursue something less obvious. The new RFS includes categories related to artificial intelligence, reflecting the interest in the technology. Caldwell stressed that AI is an enabling technology that should be applied to specific industries or problems, rather than existing in a vacuum.
Overall, the RFS is meant to be a light-hearted and idiosyncratic conversation among YC partners. Caldwell encourages founders to have fun with the process and not feel constrained by the categories. YC’s RFS offers entrepreneurs a creative writing prompt and an opportunity to explore unique and unconventional ideas.
