I've been reading about this. Though VC's are slowly becoming less popular, they are still a big deal for getting initial funding for projects. If you project won't be a for-profit you could look to partner with a non-profit/NGO in the same field and seek to make your own branch off that. DAO's are a relatively new form of funding, you could pitch your idea where you have a significant stake and see if the community wants to get behind you. Most successful businesses I know started with a loan of somekind from family, friends or unfortunately a bank... There are a bunch of options, so it can be overwhelming (I know it is for me) but I know that it will be worth it one day