It is a misconception indeed. Because in any ecosystem, a new start up needs some amount of rooting capital to survive his/her business. Venture capital or grants, whichever way it is being placed, a startup needs some capital. But my take on agreeing with the word misconception is the about the fact that, tech startups can survive without Venture Capital money. You need any huge amount of root capital in funds to survive as a tech company. So far, the company's mission is diligently based on providing effective solutions to problems near and abroad, then surviver is assured.
I like that Zach is able to provide sensible options against the notion of seeking VC's as a fresh startup struggling to find its footing. There are other ways such as pre-payments, supplier financing, project financing, paid PoCs (proofs-of-concept), client funded pilots and so on that businesses can use to source funding. Angels, incubators and accelerators should put more effort into growing businesses rather than just providing funding, mentorship etc and leaving them to their fate. I like that he understands free money in grants can be a hindrance to business growth instead more focus should be on other investments and educating young startups in making judicious calls related to funding.
