Do accelerators like Y Combinator or Techstars count as evidence for the EB-2 NIW?

Yes. Going through recognized accelerators like Y Combinator or Techstars can count as evidence in an EB-2 NIW petition, but the weight comes from what you built there, not from the selection itself.

The EB-2 NIW requires demonstrating that your work has merit and relevance to the national interest of the United States. In that framework, participation in a prestigious program helps contextualize your trajectory, as long as it is supported by concrete results.

To give this experience real weight, it helps to document:

• Projects or technologies you developed during or after the program.
• Business growth, traction, or adoption that can be substantiated.
• Associated recognition, such as press mentions, investments, or partnerships.

Accelerator participation is typically one element among several, not the sole proof. Pair it with other evidence such as publications, awards, or influence in your professional community, and consult USCIS guidance or a qualified specialist to build a solid petition package.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.