/database / rejection-database

#101 · Core Databases

Rejection Database

YC alumni who got rejected, pivoted, or nearly died — and built generational outcomes.

Verified YC alumni only — Airbnb (W09), Stripe (S10), Reddit (S05), Dropbox (S07), Coinbase (S12), DoorDash (S13), and more. Who rejected them, the snapshot then, today's valuation, every source linked.

Open the database →Free · No email required

What's inside

  • · Structured rows — searchable, filterable, exportable
  • · Source link on every entry — verifiable in one click
  • · Founder, batch, category and outcome tagging
  • · Updated as new public information emerges
  • · Web-readable + PDF download
  • · Free for current subscribers; no email required

FAQ

What is the Rejection Database?
Verified YC alumni only — Airbnb (W09), Stripe (S10), Reddit (S05), Dropbox (S07), Coinbase (S12), DoorDash (S13), and more. Who rejected them, the snapshot then, today's valuation, every source linked. It's part of the YC Insights database — the largest open library of Y Combinator learnings, built entirely from publicly available essays, batch pages, founder interviews and S-1 filings.
Who is the Rejection Database for?
Founders, operators and investors who want a structured view of the core databases side of the YC ecosystem. Whether you're applying to YC, picking an idea, or studying what's worked, this database compresses hundreds of hours of public research into one place.
Where does the data come from?
Everything is sourced from publicly available material: YC's own website, batch pages, founder interviews, partner talks, S-1 filings, and long-form podcasts. Every claim is linkable to a public source — no insider data, no leaks.
How do I access the Rejection Database?
It's live. Tap the button at the top of this page to open the full database or download the PDF — free, no email required.
Is YC Insights affiliated with Y Combinator?
No. YC Insights is an independent research project. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Y Combinator. Everything we publish is built from publicly available Y Combinator material with sources linked.
What else is in the YC Insights database?
43 databases in total across founder origins, pivots, first-1000-customer stories, batch packs, vertical packs (AI, fintech, SaaS, consumer, healthtech, edtech), deep reports and master playbooks. Browse them all at /database.

More in Core Databases

YC Solo Founder Database

20+ verified YC solo founders. Every case study. One bundle.

YC Master Pivot Database

500+ YC Companies. One Pivot. One Spreadsheet.

YC Graveyard

300+ YC Companies That Died. Here's Exactly Why.

YC First 1000 Customers Database

How 300+ YC Companies Got Their First 1000 Customers.

YC Insights is an independent resource. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Y Combinator. Built from publicly available material.