> Traction happens because of media exposure, which happens because of funding, etc. I believe funding isn't the only source of media exposure. You can get traction by creating something people want first, then use a lot of channels like HN itself, reddit and product hunt to get your initial traction. Those initial efforts may get you in an accelerator, or even get you your first seed round. So I think there is a lot a founder can do before hitting the funding milestone.