Y Combinator
“The overall goal of YC is to help startups really take off. They arrive at YC at all different stages. Some haven’t even started working yet, and others have been launched for a year or more. But whatever stage a startup is at when they arrive, our goal is to help them to be in dramatically better shape 3 months later.”
At YC I support the Events, Startup School, and Outreach teams. I develop event branding; agendas; social media imagery; landing pages; wayfinding signage; and presentation templates.
YC Grid
Y Combinator maintains a very minimalist brand which is largely structured around the orange ‘Y’ icon and ATC Arquette Bold. Working with this structure I’ve built a grid system based on increments of 1/16th of the ‘Y’ icon. This is the framework for all sub brands, lockups, and most layouts.
Batch Retreats
When YC accepts new startups, their founders begin an 11 week “batch.” These batches begin with an on-boarding retreat, which gives founders the opportunity to get to know their advisors as well as their peers.
For me these events are a great brand exercise, and they usually allow for some additional colors and a little more flavor.
Deliverables are typically attendee badges, agenda/ map booklets (see below), and custom signage.
Demo Day
Demo Day is a forum for companies to share their apps and products with potential investors and the world. After each batch founders are given the opportunity to present their improved products at one of YC’s four annual Demo Days.
There are also Investor Receptions and Alumni Reunions for further networking.
Wayfinding
(Physical UI )
Many YC events fill entire venues with designated spaces for conferences, activities, and personal work time. These areas are mapped with branded signage that reflect information within the event’s agenda (see below).
The agendas for these events are often coupled with tailored Pocket Maps for clear navigation of each venue. These booklets guide the variety of national, and international, attendees through event activations. For “Unconferences;”one-on-ones; and activities from yoga to archery; locations and times are easy to follow.
