Just to put things in perspective the next round of YC is not exactly a 'no luck' process either. Basically PG and company meet with you for 10 minutes to meet

Just to put things in perspective the next round of YC is not exactly a 'no luck' process either. Basically PG and company meet with you for 10 minutes to meet the team, and discuss the project and plan. Now, tell me, how they can possibly judge people and projects in 10 minutes, in a rational even-handed way. I'd say Ycombinator is more about winning the lottery, than doing everything right. I am fairly confident that YC receives far too many really good applications to be able to really vet everything. And also, to be fair if you are looking for mentorship, I can imagine this year will be a little different from normal, as the number of teams has doubled, and PG and Jessica have a new addition to the family. As for connections, if your scrappy you can make your own connections -- and $25K for 5% is really not that great of a valuation.