"Downside is no prestige and of the few investors it does attract, they tend to be low quality by SV standards." Taking you at face value (meaning I don't know

"Downside is no prestige and of the few investors it does attract, they tend to be low quality by SV standards." Taking you at face value (meaning I don't know the facts and I'm relying on what you are saying..) that's a huge downside. Prestige is important. While YC is not Harvard have you even noticed how many doors going to Harvard, Wharton etc. open? That said not everyone with an open door is able to capitalize on it but I'd say it's a pretty big advantage to have. Once again, this is based on my many years in business. I have nothing to gain from touting YC and I have been critical at times as well.