I think often the term Startup is used in a way that confuses this kind of conversation and analysis. The term Startup, itself, really implies only that it's a

I think often the term Startup is used in a way that confuses this kind of conversation and analysis. The term Startup, itself, really implies only that it's a new business. The word does not imply anything regarding the market or business model (i.e. how new vs. established each is). I think to many, especially in this forum, Startup implies innovative products in emerging markets using novel business models. Were this the frame of discussion, then I'd tend to agree that co-founders are important if not essential. But, given a broader perspective of Startup types (i.e. the me-too crowd, or those with humbler aspirations than to be Googlesque) I think it's less true. That is, I think there are plenty of single-founder technology/web companies doing quite well.