Our first customer was a VC who ended up investing in us, and being part of Y Combinator helped us get meetings with many interested VCs.

After being encouraged by founders like Drew Houston and Sam Altman, I applied to Y Combinator, despite my initial hesitation about giving up equity.

After selling my company, I was invited to be the first healthcare and biotech partner at Y Combinator, where I could share my story and help other founders.

Getting introductions through mutual connections is crucial for founders to access investors, customers, and hires.

To get that first meeting with investors, leverage your network and seek introductions rather than cold emailing.

I reached out to Y Combinator alumni for introductions to the partners, and within 24 hours, I started receiving responses, mostly rejections.

When I applied to Y Combinator, I didn't have high hopes, but I believed in my idea and was invited for an interview, which was a turning point for me.

The first million dollars I raised felt easy because I was raising money from people I knew well, who were investing in me personally.

Being part of Y Combinator provides invaluable exposure and credibility, especially for founders who may not have connections in Silicon Valley. It creates a unique momentum during fundraising, culminating in a demo day where you can present to top investors.