Startup Glossary

Development Stage refers to the phase in a startup`s lifecycle focused on product development, market research, and establishing operations, often before significant revenue is generated.

Digital Assets are any text, images, multimedia, or files that are created, stored, or used in digital form. In startups, digital assets can include websites, intellectual property, and software.

Digital Footprint refers to the unique set of traceable digital activities, actions, contributions, or communications manifested on the Internet or on digital devices.

Digital Nomad describes individuals who leverage telecommunications technologies to earn a living and conduct their life in a nomadic manner, often entrepreneurs who operate their startups remotely.

Digital Transformation involves the integration of digital technology into all areas of a business, fundamentally changing how it operates and delivers value to customers.

Dilution occurs when a company issues new stock which reduces an existing shareholder`s percentage of ownership.

Dilution Protection is a clause in an investment agreement that protects investors from equity dilution in subsequent financing rounds, typically by adjusting the price per share of the existing investment.

Dilutive Effect occurs when the issuance of additional shares reduces an existing shareholder’s ownership percentage, affecting their control and earnings per share.

Direct Sales Model is a business model where products or services are sold directly to customers, bypassing traditional retail channels.

Discovery Phase Funding refers to early-stage financial support aimed at validating business concepts and market potential before full-scale development.

Disruptive Innovation is an innovation that significantly alters the way businesses, industries, or markets operate, often displacing established market-leading firms.

Disruptive Technology refers to an innovation that significantly alters the way consumers, industries, or businesses operate, often displacing established market-leading firms and products.

Distributed Team refers to a workforce that is spread out across geographical locations, leveraging digital communication technologies to collaborate effectively.

Distribution Channel is the chain of businesses or intermediaries through which a good or service passes until it reaches the end consumer.

Distribution Rights are rights granted to distribute a product, technology, or service, often critical in partnerships and licensing agreements.

Diversification is an investment strategy to reduce risk by allocating investments among various financial instruments, industries, and other categories.

Diversified Revenue Streams involve generating income from multiple sources or channels to reduce dependency on a single source and mitigate financial risk.

DIY Marketing involves implementing marketing strategies and campaigns internally without the use of external agencies or consultants, often to conserve resources.

Domain Expertise is specialized knowledge or expertise in a particular area or industry, which can be a critical asset in developing a startup`s product or service.

Domain Name Investing involves buying and holding domain names as a speculative investment, with the goal of selling them at a profit.