Startup founders are facing a brutal environment. While never easy to secure, venture funding is more scarce, valuations are down, exit options are dwindling, and shutdowns, fire sales, and hard pivots are happening everywhere. Even VC firms are laying off employees — something that was practically unheard of until now.
Building a Startup in a Tough Funding Environment
Venture funding is scarce, valuations are down, and exit options are dwindling. What should founders do?
January 30, 2024
Yaroslav Danylchenko/Stocksy
Summary.
Successfully launching and scaling a new business venture has never been easy. When fundraising dries up and uncontrollables become more prevalent, the challenge is even greater. But founders increase their odds of success by proving product-market fit on a budget, conservatively fundraising, and focusing on culture and governance early on.
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HBR Learning
HBR Learning
Business Case Development Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Business Case Development. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Make your next business case more compelling.