> But that doesn't mean that YC can't offer me any useful advice.

But what can you offer them?

It's clear what YC Fellowships offer to companies, but I suspect there's also some not-as-obvious benefits to YC.

Would Tarsnap bring these benefits to YC?

Well, the benefit to YC is that they can get a better feel for companies which may fully apply to a class for a somewhat nominal fee. Stronger branding, bigger presence, and just doing some cool shit to boot.

I agree that people need to be aware that their company should offer some benefit to YC as well, just simple business...exchange of value.

I think you are in a similar situation to me. I have no need for VC money and no interest in taking in outside investors (why sell a golden goose). By the same token I understand that no VC (or anyone from YC) would want to waste their time talking to me or giving me any advice. I would just be abusing YC’s time for me to apply for one of these fellowships - they give me more than I deserve by allowing my posts on HN :)