Isn't that what all IPOs are these days?

Seems like a stretch.

I would put it differently: an IPO is what most tech startups aim for or are pressured into.

I'm a founder and have talked with few people (albeit I'm not looking for money) and you could clearly see disappointment in money-bringing people hearing you want to stay private.

Do you also get pressured into selling the company to a competitor?

Did not have that occur yet.

The IPO was canceled because it was an utter turd. They went public (with a $9 billion valuation) through a SPAC.

ahh okay

Also known as "exits".