Lack of runway as a forcing function to monetize

The founders initially started with an augmented reality (AR) idea in 2017 but pivoted to a fitness idea after it didn't work out. They then pivoted again in 2019 to create VIMCal, a calendar app. However, when they started VIMCal, they only had one and a half months of runway left before the business would have died. Despite the urgency and the pressure to ship the product and generate revenue quickly, the founders made the decision to launch the app and start charging users from day one. They had to jump on every call with every user, showcase the product, and ask for payment. Although the revenue generated initially wasn't enough to save the company, a user unexpectedly offered a $5,000 check instead of a $15 invoice, which saved them. This prompted the founders to continue using the onboarding calls as a way to fundraise. Additionally, they launched VIMCal just before the COVID-19 lockdown, making it a challenging and uncertain time to be launching a new product. However, by showing their passion and desperation for the product during the onboarding calls, they were able to secure investments from investors and save their company.