I don't mean to be snarky, but you gave the answer in your question. "I have no proven idea and no team". You did not mention a lack of skills or capital. If

I don't mean to be snarky, but you gave the answer in your question. "I have no proven idea and no team". You did not mention a lack of skills or capital. If you have no team at this point, that means you will need a proven idea to convert your 'network' into believing team members. Eventually, you will need people skills to win your team/network (see "How to Win Friends and Influence People", required reading). This is barring making one of those best friends during some shared experience. You can do this side-by-side (note: it's not hard, just requires dedication. Which is hard for some people, I know). Which leaves... How do I get a proven idea? (Read Paul Graham essays + Lean Startup) I don't think any of the solutions you provided directly address that issue. Sure, do what you need to in order to survive/thrive. But I don't think those solutions are the most efficient ways to get a proven idea. Also, there are different levels of ideas. One idea might require $100 million in capital and a large team, but it revolving around a new technology. Another might be a simple web app to make 10 people's live's easier/better that you can do in 4 hours/week. Start with the simple one if you don't think you're ready yet.