Why I'm not applying to YC.
Then I came to a crossroads that I mentioned on HN: http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=3027224
I reached out to the connection that PG pushed (Oliver Cameron) who had nothing but praise for the YC program and gave a valid point: "There really is no risk to doing YC, the worst case scenario is you have $150k in the bank on the best terms possible, with the best possible network behind you."
That was it I decided, I'm applying to YC and so came the work of perfecting my grammar and introduction video.
However, I'm not applying and I have 3 reasons why. Personal reasons at that and boy I hope I don't regret this choice.
1. I've got an investor on board not with many connections but whom can provide all the capital I need, frankly we have more than enough. Connections I thought YC will provide, then it became clear to one that I can reach out to anyone I want using the internet. If my product is worthy of their time or response I will achieve it, YC can help I thought and boy PG is influential but I'm going to take my chances.
2. I'm from the UK and the whole process of relocating even for three months would be so much of a distraction. The culture change, the knowing that I will have some major VISA issues once the program has ended.
3. I'm at alpha. I love my business model, I believe in it. I've had some epic pivots already and frankly I'm at the stage where in alpha testing I truly do think I could be on to something. I feel one year or 6months down the line I will be at the public stage, maybe it would be better to use the YC card when I'm having issues managing growth or sourcing that $500k investment.
Above all I have the feeling I won't regret not applying. That's why I know I'm doing the right thing; oh boy I left it late and that's a statement of how powerful YC truly is. A statement of how it can turn a exceptional individual and a poor idea into a great business (pivots included).
I wish the applicants all the best and maybe one day you will be the alumni I reach out too.