Sometimes, the best startup ideas are already written down — by investors themselves. Many VC firms and accelerators regularly publish lists of what they want founders to build. They’re called “Requests for Startups.”
These lists show exactly which problems investors believe are worth solving — from new AI tools and healthcare platforms to sustainable materials and aging tech. For example, Y Combinator has a public Requests for Startups page outlining areas they’d love to fund.
Exploring these requests is like getting a peek into the collective “wishlist” of the startup world. You’ll see what’s missing, what’s trending, and where there’s money ready to move.
You don’t have to follow them literally — just use them to spot gaps and directions that align with your skills and curiosity.