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If you’re a web-based startup, there’s never been a better time to find independent investors, at least if Groupon and Facebook are any indication.
Last week, Groupon raised a staggering $950 million to expand their network and invest in technology (who needs a Google buy-out, right?). That is the most money ever raised by a startup. Ever.
You might say Groupon only holds that distinction because Facebook can’t really be called a startup anymore. After all, up until the social networking giant decided to only take investors outside the U.S. this week, they were pulling in half-a-billion-dollar investments like it was milk money.
The unfortunate result of this? The number of “me-too” startups looking for venture capital interest is about to explode. And not many will still be around this time next year. Is it wise to jump on the bandwagon, or would it be better to seek out the great idea that will be next year’s Groupon?
A similar thought can be posed regarding the way marketers approach strategy and creative product. Do you really want your campaign to be “just like that Betty White Snicker’s spot?” Or the one everyone else is trying to emulate?
Tags: groupon / facebook / venture capitalist / investors