Bootstrapping, or funding your own company, has long been the first route many founders take when they set out on their entrepreneurial journey. But it’s not a decision that they have any say in.

Following a funding cooldown in 2022 and 2023, more founders are bootstrapping their startups. Bootstrapping lets founders keep more control over their companies compared to taking VC money.

Brush, C. G., N. M. Carter, E. J. Gatewood, P. G. Greene, and Myra M. Hart. "The Use of Bootstrapping by Women Entrepreneurs in Positioning for Growth." Babson ...