Both Xobni and Dropbox were single-founder startups initially.

I'll get a "Remember Xobni & Dropbox" T-Shirt printed for when you interview me, then.

Initially, I think, is the key here. Am I wrong to assume that you loved the idea, the technology, and the potential of the marketplace and that any concerns you might have had over a single-founder was assuaged by the founder's desire (but not yet accomplished) goal to find a proper co-founder/partner?

And therein lies a story...

Basically I've got somewhere between 5 & 10 good ideas for a startup of the type that really need funding (my YC application lists 5 atm, and they aren't crap ideas). Then I've got another set projects that are bootstrappable, some of which I'm working on with other people.

I could use one of those ideas, and there are plenty of people who'd be happy enough to co-found with me.

But there is one idea I'm really excited about, and no one I know is the right person to do it with. Everyone I tell it to loves the idea, and says they'd try it, but for a co-founder I need someone with a very specific set of skills. I haven't met the right person yet.

So... is it best to go for the one I think is the best idea, or is it better to have a good team and a decent idea.

Any reason why you aren't looking/haven't found a cofounder? Having a really good (and succinct) answer to this is important. If the answer is, "I haven't met anyone who would partner with me," your idea will look really bad.

In any case, don't not apply. Take risks. There is no harm in being rejected.

- My opinion? If you feel you can handle your startup by yourself, go for it!!