I think you're placing too much importance on "getting in" to YC. YC spots may be a limited commodity, but startups aren't. It's true that YC provides a great network, a media boost, and money, but...those are neither necessary nor sufficient for success.

Save your money, make a product, get people to pay you for it. When they say "No," ask them why not.

That's it. A lot of work. It probably won't make you famous. If it's fame you want, start a Youtube channel.