While there's plenty of rumors swirling on the Internet right now (Banks are closing credit cards! They're cutting credit limits!) and advice aplenty regarding what start-ups should do in the face of the crisis, most don't hold much water. However, we stumbled on one piece of solid advice today amidst all the hysteria and proclamations that you should liquidate your stocks for gold.

Over at Silicon Alley Insider, VC Fred Wilson shares his thoughts on a potential "start-up depression" (he doesn't think there is one). While he says the good news is that VC-backed start-ups don't face any immediate risk, things are going to be tougher for all start-ups—period. His advice?

"Get focused, get better, get leaner, and ultimately to get profitable."

Sure it's straightforward, but it's solid advice worth remembering if you're moving forward with a start-up or operating a small business.