TechnologyJuly 15, 2026

bootstrapping

/ˈbuːtˌstræpɪŋ/

Definition

The practice of starting and growing a business using only existing resources or personal revenue, rather than seeking external funding like venture capital or bank loans.

Etymology

Derived from the 19th-century idiom 'to pull oneself up by one's bootstraps,' which describes an impossible task. Over time, it evolved in business terminology to signify achieving success through one's own efforts and internal capital.

In the news

In the article, 'bootstrapping' is listed as a primary method for funding a business venture alongside options like loans, grants, and VC funding. It represents the self-sufficient approach to building a company before scaling or seeking outside investment.

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entrepreneur.com

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