> why would you need YC if you have found a co-founder and have some usage already? can't you just start making money?
YC is primarily looking to invest in unicorns that have returns in the 100x-1000x range. Even if you're "making money," you might just be a lifestyle business (e.g. selling custom art on Etsy) or a small business (e.g. family-run bike shop). And while both might be profitable (the owners might even be worth 7+ figures), neither of these have any realistic chance of becoming the next Amazon.
YC is primarily looking to invest in unicorns that have returns in the 100x-1000x range. Even if you're "making money," you might just be a lifestyle business (e.g. selling custom art on Etsy) or a small business (e.g. family-run bike shop). And while both might be profitable (the owners might even be worth 7+ figures), neither of these have any realistic chance of becoming the next Amazon.