> I have verbal validation "if you do x, we will partner with you" As the CEO of a funded company, you should know that the "we will partner with you" line is

> I have verbal validation "if you do x, we will partner with you" As the CEO of a funded company, you should know that the "we will partner with you" line is handwavy BS 99.9% of the time. This statement is not a measure of potential money coming in the door. Rather, it's usually code for "we would like you to pay us to build your website/social presence" (if said by an agency owner) or "we would like to do some sort of advertising joint venture" (if said by a content marketing-driven company.) Have you gotten anyone to actually toss a credit card at you across the table for this idea? If not, you have no customers and no proof this idea will work. P.S. I would be less blunt if talking to a new founder. Often they get really excited about these garbage "partnership opportunities." But you, as the CEO of a funded startup, should know better.