r/startups Self-Promotion Policy & Subreddit Rules
Where can you promote in r/startups? Short answer: only in designated weekly threads. Here is the full self-promotion policy plus mandatory flair, post templates, and the rules that will get a standalone post removed in 2026.
How to Post Safely in r/startups
Read the detailed wiki
r/startups maintains one of the most comprehensive wikis on Reddit. Read it thoroughly — it covers allowed post types, required formats, and common reasons for removal.
Choose the right flair and format
Select the correct post flair and follow the expected format for that category. Some flairs have specific templates you're expected to use.
Run a pre-flight check
Use the promotion risk checker to make sure your post doesn't accidentally trigger self-promotion filters or violate formatting rules.
Key Rules for r/startups
Mandatory post flair
Every post must use the correct flair. Unflaired posts are automatically removed. Flairs include categories like 'SaaS', 'I will not promote', and more.
No direct promotion outside designated threads
Self-promotion is restricted to specific weekly threads. Standalone promotional posts are removed regardless of how they're framed.
Follow post templates for certain flairs
Some flair categories require structured posts with specific sections (e.g., problem, solution, traction). Deviating from the template risks removal.
No competitor bashing or smear campaigns
Criticizing competitors by name in a promotional context is not allowed. Keep discussions constructive and focused on your own work.
Minimum effort threshold
Extremely short posts, vague questions, and posts that show no research effort are removed. The community expects you to demonstrate that you've tried.
No fundraising or investment solicitation
Using the subreddit to seek investors, pitch for funding, or solicit financial commitments is prohibited.
Respect the weekly thread schedule
r/startups runs weekly themed threads (e.g., Share Your Startup, Feedback Friday). Promotional and feedback-seeking posts should go in these threads.
Common Reasons Posts Get Removed
Common Posting Mistakes in r/startups
Skipping the wiki
r/startups has one of the longest and most detailed rule sets on Reddit. Many removals happen because posters didn't read the wiki before submitting.
Posting promotions outside weekly threads
Even a well-written post about your startup will be removed if it's posted as a standalone thread when it belongs in the weekly promotion thread.
Using the wrong flair
Choosing a flair that doesn't match your post type is a common mistake. If your post is a question, don't flair it as 'SaaS'. Read flair descriptions carefully.
Asking 'Is my idea good?' with no detail
Idea validation posts need substance — market research, competitive analysis, or at least a clear problem statement. One-sentence idea posts get removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigate r/startups Rules With Confidence
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