Zombie Startup
A company that survives but isn’t growing meaningfully or heading toward a strong outcome.
A zombie startup generates enough to keep going but lacks the growth to attract investment or reach a big exit — neither failing nor thriving. Recognising this state helps founders decide whether to pivot, raise, restructure or move on.
Examples
A startup plateaus at flat revenue for years. — Founders pivot to escape zombie status.
How it relates to The Startup Foundry
The Investability Report gives an honest score that helps founders avoid drifting — showing where the smart wins are.