> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://orbeonprotocol.gitbook.io/orbeon-protocol/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://orbeonprotocol.gitbook.io/orbeon-protocol/the-problem.md).

# The Problem

## Everyday businesses are finding it difficult to grow within the current Web2 environment & the barriers to entry in Web3 means it is only accessible to big name brands

## *Sources of funding available for businesses include:*

**Crowdfunding:** very “one-sided”, difficult to stand out from the crowd

**Traditional banking:** risk averse institutions, reluctant to lend

**Native Web3 offering:** fully crypto focused, difficult for businesses and the end user to understand

**NFT-as-a service:** high barrier to entry, focused on bigger brands, specialist technical expertise required to execute properly

## Businesses, are struggling to secure funds from traditional players, stand out from the crowd, and reach new clients.

**Risk averse banking institutions** – Current uncertain global economic outlooks & the shocks from Covid, plus the conflict situation in Europe, means it is especially difficult for businesses to thrive & secure funding.

***75%+ of SMEs in the UK are unable to secure funding from traditional players***

**Diverse founders struggle further -** Minorities or women owned businesses are more likely to be rejected for an overdraft & charged higher borrowing rates vs their male or white counterparts. 

***0.25% of all VC funds in UK have gone to minorities founders in last 10 years***

***2% of all VC funds in US went to female founders in 2021***

**The fight for customer attention is brutal -** Customers are constantly bombarded with offers and advertising. Businesses are struggling to stand out from the crowd & retain customers. 

**80%+ of customers are more willing to choose retailers with membership or reward programs**

**3.5x more transactions per member vs. no loyalty program**

## Everyday people are struggling to invest at the early stages in promising start ups either through lack of available information or prohibitive entry levels*.*

## Web2

Unless you happen to be a founder, family member, or close friend of a founder, chances are you will not be able to get involved at the very beginning of an exciting new startup. If you happen to be wealthy or a high net worth individual, then you may likely be able to participate as an angel investor or invest through a VC fund.

## Web3

Unless you are a crypto savvy who is consistently in the space, the likely hood is that you might experience issues with:

* A  lack of knowledge on where to begin investing in crypto and NFTs.
* A lack of trust due to a lack of knowledge.
* Questionable value of tokens and NFTs on offer due to lack of utility.
* Poor user experience due to a lack of technical know how.
* Complexity with complicated wallets, user interfaces and jargon.