Y Combinator created a new model for funding early stage startups. Twice a year Y Combinator invests a small amount of money ($120k) in a large number of startups (most recently 107).
The startups move to Silicon Valley for 3 months, during which time Y Combinator works intensively with startups to get the company into the best possible shape and refine their pitch to investors. Each cycle culminates in Demo Day, when the startups present their companies to a carefully selected, invite-only audience.
Post graduation YC and the YC alumni network continue to help founders for the life of their company, and beyond.
The winter 2017 deadline is October 4, 2016.
For more information please visit https://www.ycombinator.com/about/
Apply to https://www.ycombinator.com/apply/