Hi HNer's,
I started working on an idea a bit late (and part time) and am debating whether I should apply to YC or not in this round (I actually filled the form partially but have not submitted it yet:)). I would probably get to a prototype level stage (which should be ok based on a question I asked earlier). But most importantly, it looks like I may not get a co founder - mainly due to lack of time (deadline is oct 19). I am a bit reluctant to find a co founder online. I would rather connect with someone already in my network (though I almost ended up typing an email to a fellow HNer who I dont know before backing out).<p>I am working on an idea related to financial modeling if you care.<p>I looked at the thread http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=1192158 and looks like chances of getting selected even past the first stage are dramatically reduced if you are a single founder (they state as much in their FAQ). For those who were in the same boat and applied, was it worth it? Anyone else who has any perspective on it, please chime in.<p>Thanx!
I would say spend more time developing a solid prototype and use that time to find a co-founder. You can't be perfect and there has to be someone out there to compensate for your own weaknesses. With a good prototype, it should be much easier to attract a co-founder and the added time should allow you to really make it solid and increase your chances of getting into YC.<p>edit: Keep in mind applying isn't a binding, one-time-only thing. It's not like you can't apply for the next round if you don't get in this one.
I'm a single founder and I had the same doubts as you before applying. But then I decided to apply anyway. Just filling out the application was really useful in terms of thinking how to present my startup. I also reached out to the YC alumni network for feedback on my application and boy are they helpful! Some of the best founders out there helping you pitch your startup even before you are officially part of the network - couldn't ask for more.<p>My email's in my profile if you want to have a chat.
I'd go ahead and apply (since being rejected won't affect any future applications), but in the meanwhile, build a prototype and see about getting a quality cofounder in the meanwhile. If you don't get in, then apply next round with the cofounder... but perhaps you'll get in this round as a solo founder and you'll find one during YC.
I asked a similar question: <a href="http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=1638003" rel="nofollow">http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=1638003</a><p>PG basically said yes (ie, theere are 2/36 in current batch and 3/26 in previous batch)
I imagine if you approached PG with a great idea/demo, but no founder, he'd suggest you get a founder.<p>There was a similar situation with a past YC alum.