Unfortunately a lot of people start out by going to an incubator like YC before they really realise what they are getting into (the billion dollar exit lottery

Unfortunately a lot of people start out by going to an incubator like YC before they really realise what they are getting into (the billion dollar exit lottery instead of aiming for a profitable business). Once you go down that path it's difficult to avoid VC fundraising. The entire point of most incubators is to help you get connected with VCs and get funding.