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JS

Joel Spolsky

10/25/13

@ Y Combinator

The decision to bootstrap or seek venture capital is crucial; most entrepreneurs do not rely on VC funding.

Video

YC

Joel Spolsky at Startup School 2012

@ Y Combinator

10/25/13

Related Takeaways

MS

Michael Seibel

02/06/24

@ Y Combinator

None of the trillion-dollar software companies have been bootstrapped without venture capital; it's important to recognize that achieving such scale typically requires VC funding.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/06/24

@ Y Combinator

The discussion around bootstrapping versus venture capital should focus on the realities of business needs rather than sensationalized stories that misrepresent the funding landscape.

MS

Michael Seibel

02/06/24

@ Y Combinator

No one is forcing you to start a VC-backed company; if you prefer bootstrapping, that's a valid choice and can be revisited later if needed.

a

a16z Cast

04/29/25

@ a16z

The essence of venture capital lies not just in picking winners but in building relationships and supporting entrepreneurs throughout their journey.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/06/24

@ Y Combinator

The debate over bootstrapping versus raising venture capital often stirs engagement online, but it's important to recognize that this controversy can be exaggerated for promotional purposes.

RP

Ryan Petersen

08/30/18

@ Y Combinator

Investors prefer to back entrepreneurs who are determined to succeed with or without their funding, as it reduces their risk.

DC

Dalton Caldwell

10/23/24

@ Y Combinator

Bootstrapping means starting a company without raising venture capital, using personal funds or business revenue instead. This approach gives you complete control over your business.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/06/24

@ Y Combinator

Some businesses genuinely require upfront capital to succeed, and venture capital can provide that necessary funding when other options are limited.

MS

Michael Seibel

02/06/24

@ Y Combinator

The vast majority of businesses should not raise venture capital, as venture capitalists are not interested in investing in most businesses.