YC helps shift the leverage back to founders, making it easier for them to connect with investors who treat them well, despite the fundraising process still being unpredictable.

YC has an investor database where founders provide feedback on investors they've worked with. This helps encourage good investor behavior and serves as a valuable resource when deciding whom to prioritize for funding.

Founders frequently share horror stories about their fundraising experiences before joining YC, highlighting the stark contrast in investor behavior and terms they encounter after participating in YC.

Investors often have different incentives than founders, which can lead to misalignment in priorities.

Investors in Y Combinator companies are top-tier VCs, frequently investing in these startups and often making multiple investments.

YC founders often ask each other for introductions to journalists, making it easier to connect with the press.

YC's demo day provides a unique opportunity to connect with a large number of investors, which can significantly accelerate funding efforts for startups.

During demo day, founders often have a list of interested investors, allowing them to choose who to engage with. This gives founders more control over their fundraising process, which is crucial since many dislike fundraising.

It's challenging to identify a great investor, especially for early-stage founders who often have limited options.