The process of transitioning a private company to a public entity comes with opportunities like access to capital but also challenges like increased regulations. Key indicators of readiness include financial stability, size and scale, governance practices, transparency, and investor demand.

A 7-step framework to determine accurate pre-money valuation involves analyzing comparables, growth projections, risks, team strength, IP, and adaptable reassessment as market conditions evolve. Valuation combines art and science to reflect a company's potential and execution.

Attracting and retaining top talent is critical yet challenging for startups. While VC-backed startups have some advantages, non-funded startups can also build effective compensation strategies by offering equity, flexibility, development opportunities, and a strong culture.

Dilution erodes early stakeholders' equity, but proactive strategies like participating in future rounds, using convertible preferred shares, and negotiating protective terms can help minimize excessive dilution.

Angel investors provide crucial early-stage funding and value-add beyond capital to startups, playing an indispensable role in transforming promising ventures into success stories.

Achieving product-market fit requires ongoing iteration based on metrics, feedback, and market trends. Mistakes like not having a clear customer profile, ignoring negative feedback, or declaring fit too early must be avoided.