Wait , what ? My comment started by "Thanks" that's a weird interpretation really...
If you have 1000 companies following the course that's like 10% chance of getting funding, regardless of whether or not there is an equity that's the point.
Yeah, which is why it is only 10K -- and not the 100K like was stated earlier by someone - if it were the 100K then it would be very similar to a typical YC round of funding.
I think it's good feedback but perhaps not well stated, which is why you're getting grief for it. It is generous and a good thing to give away $1 million no matter how you do it.
Ideally though, they would give $100k to 100 (or 1000) companies and actually take equity. Most startups want to give up equity for good amounts of money, they call it "funding" ;-)
>100 companies who complete the course will also receive $10K.
Depending on your location and what position you are in your career , Funding can be a big issue.
This small grant can be a big help to start a business , but 100 companies is quiet limited to be honest.