Only a fraction of the technology developed around the world makes it onto the commercial market. The barrier is crossing the so-called 'valley of death' - the chasm that separates research-proven technologies from reaching the marketplace. To traverse this 'valley of death' entrepreneurs need to understand the true market potential of their product, but more importantly they need to secure funding. If entrepreneurs are to bridge the 'valley of death', traditional and new sources of revenue will both have their part to play over the coming years as the financial situation shows scant signs of easing. But as long as there are investors ready to provide funding, visionaries will continue to push the boundaries of technology with innovative products and services.