We didn't make it. We seriously believe we have a strong aplication: experienced people (developers), revenue model, an advanced demo, and already very very good reviews from other people.
I am sure now that YC looks at two things basically:
-a team larger enough to have at least 2 guys working full-time until Demo Day (we had only one)
-younger coders (20-28) at most. We are 29, 31 y.o.
If you don't have those two things, you probably didn't make it in this round, since it was more competitive, even if you had a demo and your solution was very interesting.
Needless to say, we will move forward faster than ever now.
Most of the negative things I got in life turned out to be positive later if I look backwards. I hope it's true with YC rejection too. :)
If you think 29/31 is old - what about me? 37? I am doomed, LOL!
Somewhere in his essays, PG mentioned that startups are achievable within 21 to 38 yrs of age. So I was thinking this is my last chance - what the heck? I will still do it, because I believe in it and my users do!
I applied knowing my company didn't fit the profile and that my chances were slim (one founder, a couple decades out of college, family, not based in MV or Boston.) Rejection is never pleasant, but the experience was positive overall and I take my hat off to Y Combinator for pioneering this unique approach to helping startups. I know other investors are watching closely and some are beginning to emulate them. All good. It would be most helpful if YC could provide statistical profiles of companies that applied and those that made it to the next round. Would also be interesting to know how many YC is planning to fund (given the current economic stituation.)
If you don't have those two things, you probably didn't make it in this round, since it was more competitive, even if you had a demo and your solution was very interesting.
Needless to say, we will move forward faster than ever now. Most of the negative things I got in life turned out to be positive later if I look backwards. I hope it's true with YC rejection too. :)