▶️ Video
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Free
Intermediate
Why we picked it When building is easier than ever and code is the least defensible thing you own, this breaks down what actually protects a startup. The YC partners walk through moats like distribution, brand, and proprietary data, using Hamilton Helmer's Seven Powers as a lens. Watch it to see why open-sourcing or building in public rarely gives away your real advantage.
The 7 Most Powerful Moats for AI Startups
On Y Combinator (Lightcone) by Y Combinator ~40 min
- Code and features are the weakest moats, especially now
- Distribution, brand, and unique data are far harder to copy
- Knowing your real moat tells you what is safe to share openly
