All startups accepted into YC will soon have the option to receive their seed checks via stablecoins, as crypto YC partner Nemil Dalal told The Block.
YC’s established “standard deal” involves an investment of $500,000 in exchange for a 7% equity stake in participating companies. This investment model is now expanding to include blockchain platforms such as Base, Solana, and Ethereum, beginning with the upcoming spring batch.
Dalal indicated that stablecoin transfers are often more effective, particularly for founders working in emerging markets. This initiative also aligns with YC’s strategy; last fall, YC partnered with Base and Coinbase Ventures to encourage founders to build more blockchain-related companies.
Interest in blockchain technology is on the rise again in Silicon Valley as the U.S. has taken steps toward more formal, crypto-friendly regulation of the industry.

