What then, the Unicorn?

Let’s skip the fantasy and get back to reality with the unicorn’s real-world cousin the Horse – fast, majestic and drinks lots of water. Desert marathon? Camels have the adaptations to outmanoeuvre and outlast any top stallion. There will always be a market and interest in Unicorns (or Horses). We however prefer a more balanced and sustainable approach.

You want a Camel anytime

Camel startups are built to handle challenges and survive on little resources. In tough times, it is resilient and able to sustain, and sometimes even able to take the opportunity to expand. In good times, it can ride tailwinds and more purposefully invest resources to seize opportunities. Growth comes in spurts in good or adverse conditions, and then quickly reach a sustainable level again. While Camels too face difficulties and challenges as any startup, the mindset is directed towards optimising and balancing resources to lower the risk of running out of cash.

Do Camels need Investment?

There is typically a need for funds to bridge periods of negative cashflow, mainly in the earlier stages. Camels too need time to mature and be financially sustainable, though the capital need is relatively lower than high-spending growth-at-all-cost startups aiming to be Unicorns. Capital may also be needed to invest in product development and other infrastructure. A characteristic of Camel startups is setting a fair price for its products and services by providing real and tangible value, which this strengthens the business model. When there is good product-market-fit, we have a sustainable business that is a powerful launchpad to pursue rapid growth.