I don't believe there is a cash crunch, but investing wouldn't dry up completely if there was. There are often exceptions for the best of the best. Investing doesn't come to a full halt during hard times, investors are just more careful. Ideas without a product would be a tougher sell if there was in fact a cash crunch.
Not having as many resources, even in terms of money & connections, doesn't put you at a disadvantage. There are so many other factors. It's easy to make excuses for why not, don't let those negative thoughts impact you, they aren't real.