You certainly don't have to start out on the pinks. Few ever get off this level and ever trade on an actual exchange.
Most pink companies will tell you the same thing "Our Goal, At some point, Is to uplist and get off the pinks. And that is what they are trying to do.
Yes, they'll all tell you that. Unfortunately, most are lying.
If they weren't, this board wouldn't be necessary.
"Give 'em the old Razzle Dazzle.....razzle dazzle 'em"