Boston seems like the Second City of startups. Great place to get started but not the big time.

When the SFP started, I had no idea that Boston had much current startup activity. I mean, I knew a couple places that started there but not as many as, say, Seattle. But I think now it's a great place for the first stage of a startup's life. Lots of hackers and lots of financiers that can get you going. But the M&A, influential investors and press is just so extremely concentrated in the Bay Area.

Don't get me wrong, I'm an LA guy and am fond of Cambridge, so I'm not a homer here. But that's the reality, especially for companies as determined to make it as the YC companies presumably are.

Of course, there are lots of Boston area startups beyond the few YC funds. And most of those doing YC don't have Boston roots, so they might not have much reason to stay.

To the larger point, Boston needs a stronger and more vibrant community of hackers, esp. for those interested in the web.

And I'm bummed I missed the meetup last night...

That's a good point. It would be interesting to know how many from the current group were from the area. Also knowing how many are actually moving to the Valley vs. moving back to where they're based.

I'm sure there will be another meetup, but maybe not before Oct 18th :)

Is this a rhetorical question? The answer seems obvious...

What? That all startups must move to the Valley?

I find that hard to believe.

I know you find it hard to believe. Otherwise you wouldn't be asking yourself a rhetorical question.