If your goal is a proof of concept, use what you know and don't stress about performance yet. Other options for using a web stack to build native apps include Steroids (native transitions with web views) and React Native. From what you're describing, it doesn't seem like you'll hit any major ch...
Option 1. Before you muddy the waters go to a local bank and see if they can help. They may be able to provide you a short term loan. Option 2. Ask friends and family if they will loan you the money. Option 3. Get a pitch deck together and get on AngelList
I've had a bunch of my own 'maker' / hacker projects publicized. Here's what I suggest: 1) Write up a project and suggest it to Make Magazine (http://makezine.com/) 2) Tell hobby electronic supply shops about it to see if they want to stock it (e.g. https://www.sparkfun.com/ https://www.ada...