I think there's a pretty big disconnect between your version of "working prototype" and what is actually necessary.
If your goal is to get some seed money, to build a "prototype" to raise money, then the net requirement isn't a full functional app, but just enough to get the point across in an elegant enough way to secure additional financing.
This could be as simple as a sketch on a napkin, and as complex as a full functional website with an e-commerce component.
As long as you can effectively deliver the experience of what it is you need money to build, then your medium for doing so isn't as important as getting the point across.
Comments
I think there's a pretty big disconnect between your version of "working prototype" and what is actually necessary.
If your goal is to get some seed money, to build a "prototype" to raise money, then the net requirement isn't a full functional app, but just enough to get the point across in an elegant enough way to secure additional financing.
This could be as simple as a sketch on a napkin, and as complex as a full functional website with an e-commerce component.
As long as you can effectively deliver the experience of what it is you need money to build, then your medium for doing so isn't as important as getting the point across.