Global VC Funding Down 30% Spurs Shift from VC-Backed to Bootstrapped Startups, $1M vs $1M ARR

The startup landscape is witnessing a notable shift as venture capital (VC) funding has decreased by 30% globally. This decline is prompting more entrepreneurs to adopt bootstrapping strategies to achieve success. The contrast between VC-backed founders and bootstrapped founders is becoming increasingly evident, with discussions highlighting examples such as a VC-backed founder who raised $1 million compared to an indie hacker generating $1 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR). The trend is further illustrated by comparisons between big tech engineers and startup founders, indicating a broader movement within the industry towards self-sustaining business models.