Note that the amount raised is typically meant for a small team of people to work on things for a few months.
Most YC companies go on to raise several hundred thousand dollars from angel investors and VC's at the end of the three months -- some raise millions. The $15K-$20K (plus $80K YC VC program) is enough money to get to market and prove people want it. It's also enough money to change your idea and try something else if your initial tries do not work.
Most YC companies go on to raise several hundred thousand dollars from angel investors and VC's at the end of the three months -- some raise millions. The $15K-$20K (plus $80K YC VC program) is enough money to get to market and prove people want it. It's also enough money to change your idea and try something else if your initial tries do not work.