That type of financial-forward modeling helped us figure out when we would need to start fundraising and taking in investments. I wondered, what was the process like, developing this innovative technology while also building out a viable business plan? That's when the startup support networks like the MEDC became invaluable. Denise: As people say, being an entrepreneur and running a startup is like a rollercoaster. Meng and I were bantering, and her young, six-year-old son was in the background at the time.