Earlier quoted context omitted.
Of course the YC connections were the first things on my mind. I don't think you can equate them to hard cash. It's just that the cash would have given me the chance to quit consulting and go 100% on my idea. But it's not the end of the world.
if $$$ is a problem, can either bum around relatives and see if you can convince them to give you the loan or get one of those 10-30K @ 0% APR for 9 months credit card offers. That way you'll be able to do your thing
Why not just save some money for a few months (or however long it takes)? If you want it badly enough, waiting shouldn't be a problem...