You're right about YC. Have you tried Angel List (angel.co)? Unfortunately the bar is set pretty high in general. A lot of the time investors will expect a working product and evidence of a growing user base.
Further, you're going to have a hard time raising capital from anywhere outside the US, with the exception of a few cities like London and Berlin. It's a big problem and a big flaw in the funding model which, despite investing in new technologies, is itself antiquated and old-fashioned.
Let people on HN know what you're trying to do and how they can help and you might be surprised. In any case, good luck!
Further, you're going to have a hard time raising capital from anywhere outside the US, with the exception of a few cities like London and Berlin. It's a big problem and a big flaw in the funding model which, despite investing in new technologies, is itself antiquated and old-fashioned.
Let people on HN know what you're trying to do and how they can help and you might be surprised. In any case, good luck!