"I couldn't help but wonder if the whole thing is an elitist outlet for VCs to gain publicity for their latest investments." I would guess the top competitors

"I couldn't help but wonder if the whole thing is an elitist outlet for VCs to gain publicity for their latest investments." I would guess the top competitors in this competition are more interested in the free advertising/marketing opportunities than the cash/credit prizes. The prize isn't the money, it is Amazon's endorsement.