Maybe true, but one armchair observation that may go against the YC-bias is that it's more about execution than idea, and probably half of that is participation

Maybe true, but one armchair observation that may go against the YC-bias is that it's more about execution than idea, and probably half of that is participation not exceptional execution. Look at all the highstreet nail salons - no innovation, and not a whole lot to differentiate them. They are just providing a product/service where there is known demand, and taking a slice of the pie. $1M in 1 year seem a pretty high bar starting from scratch, but on a longer timeframe things like real-estate rental and franchise businesses seem an all but guaranteed way to get rich just "taking a slice of the pie" beyond what you'll do working for someone else.