My 2 cents.... I suggest that there is much more value in the experience, expertise, and networking than in the money. That being said, the money is necessary

My 2 cents.... I suggest that there is much more value in the experience, expertise, and networking than in the money. That being said, the money is necessary for some startups based on their (potential) business model or the circumstances of their founders. Even if the money is not needed, it's a trivial amount for the YC folks to guarantee across the board for the access they get to the ground floor of some of the best startups.