Where are the moon shots today ?
In this decade, we just don't see orthopedic startups taking moonshots like the startups in the 1990s. More startups in the 2020's are focusing on incremental missions, not moon missions. Where is the next Kyphon today ?
Why is this?
One possible explanation is increased competition. With more players entering the market and the barriers-to-entry becoming lower, startups are pressured to focus on short-term goals and achieving incremental progress rather than pursuing long-shot moonshots.
Additionally, investors may be less willing to fund high-risk ventures in today's economy, preferring instead to invest in more established companies or those with a proven track record of success.
Furthermore, with rapidly evolving technology and changing regulatory environments, startups may feel that taking on big risks is too unpredictable and may not provide the same returns as more conservative approaches.
Just try to wrap your head around an historical moon shot startup, Kyphon.
1996 – First funding
1998 – FDA approves balloon kyphoplasty, but not the bone cement filler.
2000 – $6M sales
2001 – $36M sales
2002 – $76M
2003 – $131M
200...
