Which of the following best describes a startup?

A startup is best described as a new business that is working to develop a scalable business model. This definition encapsulates the essence of what a startup is: it is an early-stage company focused on growth and innovation, often in the process of defining its product or service offerings and finding a market fit.

Startups are characterized by their pursuit of scalable solutions, meaning they aim to establish a business model that can be replicated and expanded, allowing for significant growth without a corresponding increase in costs. This drive for scalability is what differentiates startups from more traditional small businesses, which might not necessarily focus on rapid expansion.

In contrast, a company that has already established itself in the market falls outside the definition of a startup, as it has already moved beyond the initial phases of developing and validating its business model. Similarly, an established company going through restructuring does not fit the startup label; it is typically a more mature organization adapting to changes rather than an emerging entity looking to innovate from the ground up. Lastly, a business that only operates online does not inherently qualify as a startup; while many startups may utilize online platforms, the defining factor is not the medium of operation but rather the company's stage of development and growth objectives.