Although the number of startups in the US continues to increase following the pandemic, the funds necessary to grow these companies at the appropriate rate are not necessarily increasing at the same pace. The pandemic has caused investors to be more strategic and to lower the potential risk they may be willing to take. In the life-science startup world, this can be a very dangerous OR a very good time to initiate a business. I believe the best way to differentiate yourself when talking with investors is to have a fully realized go-to-market strategy and a cohesive, clear message that portrays a realistic sense of confidence, supported by facts, that the plan being presented is accurate and provides the fastest path to a lucrative ROI.