> I stopped trying. I've been a co-founder of a US company for more than 10 years, 50+ employees, I never been to US.

That's completely unacceptable. You can still look at the bright side (you were allowed to run a company which allowed you to access US wealth, many countries restrict that to their own citizens).

I'd advise to socialize within the consulate/embassy. Here, they have lots of events. Try to make friends with the people working there and you'll make a reputation. Don't give up.