Germination Commitment Protocol
A phased timeline for executing germination once the decision is made.
A phased timeline for executing germination once the decision is made. Maps biological germination stages to startup launch phases.
When to Use Germination Commitment Protocol
After deciding to germinate (Three-Gate Audit passed, Timing Matrix shows green), use this protocol to execute the launch in proper sequence.
How to Apply
Scarification (Week 1-2)
Break the seed coat. Quit the job or go part-time. Commit reserves. Announce publicly. Burn the ships - make dormancy impossible.
Outputs
- Public commitment
- Reserves allocated
- Point of no return crossed
Radicle Emergence (Month 1-3)
Push the root down. Build the absolute minimum viable product - minimum viable for validation, not scale. Target 10 customers who love it over 1,000 lukewarm.
Outputs
- MVP built
- First users acquired
- Validation signal detected
Cotyledon Deployment (Month 3-6)
First leaves emerge - temporary energy sources until photosynthesis begins. Get first revenue, first pilots, first validation that people will pay.
Outputs
- First revenue
- Pilot agreements
- Payment validation
True Leaf Development (Month 6-12)
Photosynthesis begins. The seedling produces more energy than it consumes. Product-market fit. Repeatable customer acquisition. Business self-sustaining or clear path to it.
Outputs
- Product-market fit
- Repeatable acquisition
- Sustainable unit economics
Growth (Month 12+)
The seedling becomes a sapling. This is no longer germination - this is growth. Different mechanisms, different challenges (scaling, competition, resource allocation).
Outputs
- Scale readiness
- Transition to growth phase