Learn in the textbookInnovation Theory and the Three Barriers to Commercialization
DefinitionThe Valley of Death (死の谷) is the barrier between development of a technology or prototype and commercialization, where it is sold as a product for profit.
ExplanationCommercialization needs a lot of money for mass-production equipment, a sales setup and staff, but there is no revenue yet, so projects often stall for lack of funds and resources. It is the second barrier to a new business and comes after the Devil's River between research and development.
AnalogyYou are holding a finished prototype, but the money for mass production never comes together, so launch day never arrives.
Memory hookIt translates the English "Valley of Death". Think of the valley floor as the place where the money runs out.