American startup accelerator Y Combinator has expressed interest in exploring ideas related to artificial intelligence (AI), the metaverse, and stablecoins, according to a recent report known as “Request for Startups” (RFS).
The RFS encompasses 21 categories in which the company is eager to see more innovation and entrepreneurial activity.
Notably, Y Combinator emphasizes AI, encouraging projects ranging from applying machine learning to robotics and simulating the physical world to explainable AI and using AI for building enterprise software.
Regarding the metaverse, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) technologies, the company acknowledged the growing popularity and enhanced user experience resulting from the launch of Meta Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro headsets. However, Y Combinator identifies areas for improvement and innovation, specifically calling for the discovery of new use cases beyond gaming and enhancements to the user experience.
Stablecoins — which are cryptocurrencies pegged to the value of another currency like the US dollar — are also highlighted by Y Combinator as “the future of money.” The company expresses interest in funding teams working on building B2B and consumer products on top of stablecoins, as well as tools and platforms that facilitate stablecoin finance.
Y Combinator’s interest in funding projects related to emerging Web3 technologies underscores the perceived potential and progressive future developments in these areas. This inclination towards innovative technologies is not unique to Y Combinator, as evidenced by other initiatives in the industry.
In 2022, L’Oréal, Meta, and HEC Paris collaborated on a startup accelerator dedicated to fostering innovation in the metaverse. In July 2023, Sella Group introduced the “Metaverse 4 Finance Accelerator” to support startups in metaverse finance. Furthermore, in October, Walmart and Outlier Ventures launched their Web3 Accelerator Program, focused on advancing global retail and commerce through decentralized solutions.
