[alan_cx]

OK, I dont know much about start ups (I lurk here because of the quality of stories and comment), but here in the UK what I see often are start-ups who seem to rely on the idea that they will run at a loss, often large loss, in the expectation that they will either float or get bought up, rather than perusing a model where the start-up can be profitable on it's own. I've worked for a couple during ye olde dot com boom!!!

OK, I understand that model and I can see the sense in it, but does it not set up a situation where the start-up is so dependent on some one buying them up that they can get over keen once potential buyers circle, resulting in them becoming vulnerable to the iffy behaviour of bigger businesses.

Seems to be a critical point in the business, where the founders can run in to trouble, for reasonable human reasons. Perhaps some sort of help is required in this area?