Startup
A young company built to grow fast by solving a problem in a new or better way, usually under high uncertainty. Paul Graham's definition centers on growth, not age or industry.
Why it matters
Calling something a startup sets expectations, of rapid growth, experimentation, and risk, that differ from a small business built for steady income. Knowing which you are building shapes how you fund, staff, and measure it.
For example
A two-person company built to grow fast by solving a problem in a new way is a startup, unlike a corner shop built for steady, local income.
Go deeper
Related terms
Also in Starting Up
See how founders actually handle this on Founder life, part of the Starting Up hub.
eChai Partner Brands
