[wunna]

Is there any other option for my (slightly) grown-up startup with a ton of traction to come pitch you?

p.s I did read the YC FAQ etc. But hoping that might be just the "official line" :-)

[ig1]

If I was in your situation and my startup closely aligned with pg's interests what I'd do is find a mutual contact who pg trusts and will give you a rave introduction.

For that matter the same applies to any other investor.

[rdl]

Honestly you are probably better off doing YC around when you'd do a Series A, or even slightly after, assuming all your investors would be ok with it (they should be), vs. really early.