Y Combinator returns to in-person Demo Day with 93 startups

In the United States, the startup accelerator Y Combinator is set to reinstate its in-person Demo Day on December 4, 2024. This event follows a trend observed in the tech industry to resume physical gatherings after extensive periods of remote events due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The return of the Demo Days is anticipated with significant enthusiasm from the startup community, particularly from participants of its Fall 2024 program. Esther Crawford, a founder who previously worked with major companies such as Twitter and Meta, expressed excitement over the 'high energy' present during the in-person Alumni Demo Day that occurred on December 1, where 93 startups had a chance to present to a live audience. Avni Patel Thompson, founder and CEO of Milo, described it as not just a critical opportunity for current entrepreneurs but also a 'dress rehearsal' for future pitches that will be presented to investors and media during the official event. This approach allows seasoned founders to offer guidance and support, helping newer entrepreneurs sharpen their pitches in front of peers. The previous Demo Days had transitioned to virtual formats amid the pandemic, a move that was a necessary adjustment to maintain connections. However, earlier this year, Y Combinator's CEO Garry Tan indicated that the September 2024 Demo Day would mark the end of this virtual trend, highlighting the importance of face-to-face interactions in networking and fundraising. As anticipation builds for the upcoming Demo Day, the return signifies not only a pivotal moment for involved startups but also reflects broader shifts within the tech industry toward normalcy and personal engagement.