Question 1

Who should apply to Elbow Grease?

Accepted Answer

We invite any founding team to apply, so long as you've found a problem worth devoting your career to solving.

Question 2

How much does Elbow Grease invest?

Accepted Answer

We will invest $300,000 on a post-money YC SAFE.

Question 3

What are the terms of the Elbow Grease investment?

Accepted Answer

Our standard terms are $300,000 invested for 9% ownership.

Question 4

Does Elbow Grease charge fees or take additional equity?

Accepted Answer

No. Elbow Grease does not charge fees or take additional equity beyond the standard investment terms.

Question 5

Do I need a co-founder to apply to Elbow Grease?

Accepted Answer

No. We are open to solo founders, and in some cases can help you recruit a co-founder if that is what you are looking for.

Question 6

Can I apply to Elbow Grease if I've already raised capital?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Anyone is welcome to apply, however we are unlikely to seriously consider companies that have raised and burned more than $2M.

Question 7

How many companies does Elbow Grease select per cohort?

Accepted Answer

We are aiming to select 10 to 15 companies, depending on applicant quality.

Question 8

Who will I work with at Elbow Grease?

Accepted Answer

You will work with the full Gutter Capital team. Each Elbow Grease company will be matched with a successful founder mentor, one Gutter partner (Dan or James), and receive ongoing support from Richard (Talent) and Vince (Design) as needed.

Question 9

Do I need to be in New York City to apply to Elbow Grease?

Accepted Answer

No, however you do need to work out of the office in NYC at least 5 days a week during the program. If you have a special circumstance we are happy to discuss.

Question 10

What are the Elbow Grease program dates?

Accepted Answer

The program kicks off September 15, 2026 and lasts for 10 weeks in NYC. Elbow Grease companies are welcome to continue working at Gutter HQ for as long as they like after the program ends.

Question 11

Does Elbow Grease provide housing?

Accepted Answer

No. The $300,000 investment is meant to fund salaries and relocation costs, among other things.

Question 12

What is the time commitment for Elbow Grease founders?

Accepted Answer

Founders should expect to be working on their startups a minimum of 60 hours a week during the program, because that is what it takes to succeed in our experience. Elbow Grease programming is kept light but impactful, and should not take up more than 4 hours per week.

Question 13

Does Elbow Grease fund companies that are competitive with its existing portfolio?

Accepted Answer

No. Elbow Grease will not fund companies that are competitive at the time of investment. We cannot control what happens once a company is funded, so it is possible that companies will pivot to operate in adjacent or competitive spaces.

Question 14

Does Elbow Grease provide follow-on capital after the accelerator?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our goal is for you to be successful enough at Elbow Grease to warrant a pre-seed investment from Gutter Capital of $1-2M. We will work closely with you to determine the milestones needed to warrant further investment.

Skylar Chen

Skylar Chen