Would like to build a better search engine for business results (not searches for Katy perry).

I always feel the next step once you have an idea is to validate it by creating something simple that you can put in front of someone, so they can review and give feedback.

This can come in different forms
1) Verbally describing the solution and getting feedback from target customers
2) Design simple 1 page brochure to describe the solution and it's features.
3) Clickeable prototype using Keynote, Balsamiq or other.

You don't need to build a working solution ... first start on defining what the problem is, and see if anyone cares.

The key to doing this right, is:
1) Don't tell them it's your idea, say it's a friends project and your helping him collect feedback.
2) Only get feedback from your target customer (i.e. Entrepreneurs, VP's of Marketing, etc) - whoever is going to use or pay for it.
3) DONT SELL. If they don't like it, ask why - but don't sell the idea.

Your goal at this stage is to learn. Another tip if you're up for it, is to ask them to give you $20 for early access. Most people don't have the guts to do this, but it's the fastest way to know if you're truly building something of value, or a nice to have.

I covered how to prototype in this answer if you're curious.
https://clarity.fm/questions/933/building-an-mvp-for-an-online-reward-system-for-consultants-freelancers-va-s

Great answer with loads of information: my problem is somewhat similar however it goes one step further: I have created a functional prototype using a simple web design platform for my application. I do not have the necessary skills to develop the true program myself and I currently find myself at a standstill:

Do I launch a simpler version of my concept now, using the features of the prototype that are functional? Or do I use seek the proper financial support to properly hire a true developer.

See, I originally created the prototype so I may start testing demand and functionality for the purposes of attracting angel investors and possible team members...however the development of the prototype was a great learning experience because it showed me those ideas that work and inspired some new features to be added or adjusted. Here I am 12 months later with no seed financing or co-founder to develop it: however I have just applied to a local tech incubation firm (Chicago), and I have begun exposing my idea to the startup community at Angel.co (https://angel.co/philip-higgins). It's a critical time for me to make the right next steps.

Designing search engines is about more than skill. It's an act of war. You're invading the country of Google + Microsoft with your team.

Even with the best minds at your disposal, they won't have access to sufficient infrastructure and data to get off the ground -- not without piles of money. And you'll be competing with the biggest companies on earth -- companies that employ armies of highly paid engineers, dominate the market already, buy up patents to cover everything under the sun, and who can afford to throw millions at an idea ... or to crush an upstart.

You'd want to be VERY sure you can conquer that country before the invasion.