Essentially, the market forced you onto the track that it wanted you to be in. Which, as you found out, is a good thing (and the only possibility).
As the best time for VC investment is generally at the inflection point of the exponential growth curve. When revenue can't keep up with what it costs to supply the ever faster growing demand. Which, for many companies, will be shortly before an outright acquisition. And usuaully 5-10 years, minimum, after slow customer growth. Assuming a good business but not necessarily a unicorn in terms of market position.
But at that point wily founders may instead look to keep their company and seek a loan.
As the best time for VC investment is generally at the inflection point of the exponential growth curve. When revenue can't keep up with what it costs to supply the ever faster growing demand. Which, for many companies, will be shortly before an outright acquisition. And usuaully 5-10 years, minimum, after slow customer growth. Assuming a good business but not necessarily a unicorn in terms of market position.
But at that point wily founders may instead look to keep their company and seek a loan.