Investors want to see traction and know that their money will be spent wisely. Working technology and a clear product validation path are critical. Prototype vs POC vs MVP is an important early-stage decision. A well-presented articulation of the business model is also key. Few early stage firms have all the required skills and experience in-house

• For startups looking to raise in this landscape, having a strong product demo and well thought through plan for growth during a downturn will be crucial to the funds and investors that remain active Oliver Richards, Partner MMC Ventures
• Early market validation is likely to play a bigger role in future VC investment Decisions. European Commission Joint Research Centre
• Validating your ideas is critical to success Taylor Wescoatt, Seedcamp
• Have a bit of validation on your product idea to give you a stronger story Jess Lee, Sequoia Capital