Why not work WITH one or more of those companies? Partner with some firms, and you get the testimonials you need, and the expertise. At the "cost" of less pro

Why not work WITH one or more of those companies? Partner with some firms, and you get the testimonials you need, and the expertise. At the "cost" of less profit upfront. What does partner mean? It could be as little as telling them they can give input into the new product so it meets their needs better, to some discounts. But I have seen this approach used from the other side of the table, and it CAN work. Just make sure you are ready to back your side. But I'm just an engineer. What do I know about marketing?