Definition
Initial coin offering (ICO) is the fundraising method where companies sell cryptocurrency tokens to investors. Founders reach for it when a vague conversation needs a shared, specific meaning. Name it clearly, then let the next decision — a hire, a price, a test, or a pass — follow from that meaning.
In the room
How the word shows up in a real conversation.
Two cofounders disagree until they define Initial coin offering (ICO). Once they agree it means “Fundraising method where companies sell cryptocurrency tokens to investors”, the argument becomes a decision.
Common mistake
Using Initial coin offering (ICO) as a label instead of a fact. If you cannot point to the evidence — a number, a customer, or a written assumption — you are using the word as jargon.
See also
Initial funding
First round of capital raised to start or launch a new business venture.
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Initial market research
Preliminary investigation into market conditions and customer needs.
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Initial market segmentation
Process of dividing a market into distinct groups of potential customers.
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Initial market validation
Process of testing and confirming market demand for a new product or service.
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