The YC application is mostly form text. But the application also lets you attach supporting material — a clean PDF that pulls together founder bios, traction proof, and product evidence can be the difference between an interview and a rejection.
The form does the talking; the PDF does the closing.
What to include
Cover with company name and one-line description. Founder bios (1 page total, focus on credibility and complementary skills). Traction evidence (charts of growth, customer quotes, revenue chart if applicable). Product screenshots showing the core value. Anything else that genuinely strengthens the application — but be ruthless.
Build each section
Founder bios in Word, converted to PDF. Traction charts in Excel or your analytics tool, converted to PDF. Screenshots as images, converted to PDF. Merge into a single supporting document.
Keep it under 5 pages
Partners read hundreds of applications. The supporting PDF should be readable in two minutes. Five pages maximum: cover, bios, traction, product, ask. Beyond that, partners skim. Tight beats comprehensive.
Make it shareable
Partners discuss applications among themselves. A clean PDF is easy to forward; a Google Doc with comments is awkward. Send PDF every time. Name the file with company name and batch — `Flint_YCS26.pdf` — for findability.
FAQ
Does YC require supporting documents?
Not required, but most applications include them. Strong supporting material doesn't save a weak application, but it amplifies a good one.
Should I include detailed financials?
No — YC isn't looking for spreadsheets at application stage. Traction evidence (users, revenue, growth rate) yes; full financials no.
What about video?
YC requires a video interview separately. Don't embed video in your PDF — link separately if useful.
Should I include investor traction?
Only if substantial and from known names. Vague "interest" from unknown investors hurts more than helps.
The supporting PDF amplifies a strong application. Build yours in Flint and the form gets read more carefully.