Ask HN: Middle ground between bootstrapping & VC?

[brewgardn]

We need a small runway ($250K) to get our first customers, but we don't want to take on debt, give up equity or otherwise have an exit strategy. We want a sustainable private company. If we're looking beyond friends and family, who should I reach out to?

[csclark]

Not sure if you're able to get something for nothing... you're going to have to compromise on at least one of your values.

Possibly consider an Angel investor, who would more than likely invest in your business as a hobby, rather than a professional VC who is just looking to flip start-ups.

Start off with Angel List (www.angel.co)

[brewgardn]

Are there other ways for Angels to get their capital out of a startup other than an acquisition/IPO?