From the situation to a useful next step.
Here is a possible starting point. In a conversation, we can clarify the circumstances and agree my involvement.
The work looks valuable, but the funding path is unclear
Where we could start
I would start by reviewing what is currently known, what the customer has actually said, and what remains an assumption. We could then select one useful qualification or discovery question before proposing more work.
What you would have
A concise situation brief with facts, assumptions, questions and a possible next step.
Who needs to be involved
The prospect, the budget owner if identifiable, and the seller or founder responsible for resource allocation.
Roles and decisions
The customer decides whether funding is possible. I help prevent unsupported sales assumptions.
Prepare an enquiry
This is an editable starting outline, not a submitted enquiry. Add your own circumstances.