How will you create the prototype during the YC period that proves you are ready for the next step? You don't need to answer here or answer to get in YC -- you need to answer that to actually make progress, though.

Let's say the answer is you get a tech co-founder.

Great -- now, what part do you do that's so important? Again, this isn't for you to answer here -- this is what a good tech co-founder will want to know. The answer is NOT: "I have the ideas". It's more like getting the first 10 customers and knowing how to get the next 100 or 1000 after that.

If it's really true that you can get the first 1000 customers, why are you wasting time learning to code? A little is fine, but if the idea depends on software, you're going to be too slow, and revenue will solve a lot of coding problems.

As someone learning to code i can relate. Here's how i look at things - if you're successful and it takes off, which i hope it does. The challenges you'll face then will be more tougher than learning how to code a initial prototype. Go as much as you can into the prototype without someone else. test it with a small group of people , get some feedback. this way you'll have a fair idea of how things work. Also you will be able to evaluate someone you're going to partner with in the future. Hope this helps. Good luck :)

Some quick thoughts:

If you really have a passion for a business that you want to make happen, while the YC association would be nice don't feel that it has to be make or break.

I don't think there is anything laughable about a non-coder doing code: It gives you an edge over C-suite types when it comes to working with coders.

It's also not insane to apply: Even if you fail chances are you'll learn a great deal along the way and make some contacts. Also there's no rule that you can't apply more than once or try another incubator program.

I would figure out what your technology stack will be, and try your best to get familiar with those languages and frameworks.

Then hire someone to build the prototype before YC. You're not going to be able to head the tech side of the company, so it's probably best to find someone to do that as soon as possible as co-founder or a hire. Even if you can't build it yourself, learning a bit about the language and architecture you're using will be valuable.

I am so impressed with the support your community is giving us. It's inspiring and valuable advice. I have proved the first 200 customers, am on track to prove 1000 but not before application deadline. What I will focus on is finding a non-founder (or founder if I get lucky) tech guy to take my wireframes, design and get into real testing. Will push ahead. (And I am going to continue to gently push my son into your world.) Very cool.

Build a prototype and prove people are going to pay for your product. Having real customers desperate to use your solution is the best way to get into YC.

just apply.