Ramen Profitable
Adjective · Startup & VC · Origin: 2009
Definitions
A startup that makes just enough revenue to cover the founders' basic living expenses (i.e., ramen noodles). Coined by Paul Graham, it represents the crucial first step from 'burning savings' to 'technically not going broke.'
In plain English: A startup that earns just barely enough money for the founders to survive — not getting rich, just covering rent and instant noodles.
Etymology
- 2009
- Paul Graham of Y Combinator coins 'ramen profitable' — making just enough revenue to pay founders' rent and ramen noodle budgets
- 2009
- The concept becomes a key milestone for YC startups: survive on revenue, even barely, to negotiate from strength with investors
- 2010s
- Ramen profitability becomes startup mythology shorthand for the scrappy early days before real revenue