Problem before solution
Ask what problem exists, who experiences it, what evidence supports that understanding and what the smallest useful test is. An idea should not begin by assuming the world needs the proposed solution.
Recovered gate discipline
The source lists nine gates: Problem Clarity → User Evidence → Simple Solution → Small Test → Feedback → Cost & Feasibility → Ethical & Legal Check → Pilot → Public Claim. DEPTH-08 preserves this as a learning/governance sequence, not a guarantee that an incubator program exists.
No funding or ownership implication
Do not imply seed funding, investment, guaranteed mentorship, equity, ownership transfer, incubation guarantee or startup success unless a separately governed program exists.
Protect confidential ideas and evidence
Idea review can reveal unpublished concepts, business information or intellectual-property concerns. Collect only what is needed and clarify whether feedback is public, private, advisory or part of a formal program.
Reflection
Questions to sit with
- What problem is evidenced before the solution?
- Which gate are we actually at?
- What should not be claimed before the next test?