I think the methodology isn't consistent. Our director said that wildcard bids would not be accepted for our gym (satellite gym) yet last weekend, another satellite gym was announced for a Wildcard bid. Not sure how it will play out, but each to her own. I will say, that team looked totally awesome in comparison to their performances in Providence. They completely deserved the bid in Trenton.
I don't know how things vary regionally, but our gym would only be at 2 comps this season to be eligible for AL or paid Summit bids. Not much wiggle room there if the team isn't on point for the season.