This is where Artistic Lyon may be unique in your feeds. We’ll talk about creativity, music, faith and God, AND startup world.

Having raised over $1.2M in angel investment over the past 20 yrs, and launching 6 different businesses, I pay attention to articles that help pave a path in how to go to market with a product or service. Starting a business is daunting, I’ve yet to not hit big hurdles along the way.

This article from Tech Crunch, Startup branding: how much does it really cost? is a good one to diffuse the anxiety. For one, the writer emphasizes the importance of proof of concept. I often tell new entrepreneurs no one cares about their idea until it’s proven. But boy we love us some ideas! The ideas are the fun part because there’s been no contact with the enemy, meaning, the consumer. When you have any amount of sales, you turn heads immediately because you made someone care about your widget enough to part with their hard-earned scratch.

The article also covers the basics, which I’m surprised how often they’re overlooked by new entrepreneurs. A professionally designed logo, website and deck are a must. The latter piece (the deck) can be designed by you if you have a background in communication and presenting to clients. Tattoo this on both forearms! NO MORE THAN 20 SLIDES! And 15 is even better. No one wants to read a 50-pg plan or deck. No one wants to review 60 months of projected forecasts.

Check out this amazing Guy Kawasaki mantra on pitch decks. But again, the most important thing is proof of concept, which will require a the fundamentals of brand positioning.