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Developers ↔️ Template Providers
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$40K
monthly
|
—
days
|
$0.20
per visitor
|
$-1
to start
|
50
out of 100
|
Ajay and Vrushank were colleagues at a software...
Ajay and Vrushank were colleagues at a software firm where they identified a widespread need for reusable UI Kits and Admin Panels for apps and platforms. Creating a UI for each project was time-consuming and repetitive, so they built a solution.
We were both working at a software company and realized that, while most products required a backend admin panel, there weren't many solutions available. — Ajay Patel.
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Ajay and his team always begin with market rese...
Ajay and his team always begin with market research. They attend the latest design conferences, engage with the community, and maintain a feedback loop to stay ahead of the curve. The development process takes an average of 6 to 12 months to build each product, ensuring that design and code quality are maintained. They do not outsource the work to ensure the highest quality standards. Snapshot of themeselection.com landing page from 2014
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ThemeSelection focuses on SEO to maximize organ...
ThemeSelection focuses on SEO to maximize organic traffic for our products. They use Semrush and Ubersuggest to determine the keywords and publish helpful, informative blog posts to attract traffic and establish a customer base. In addition, they publish content on developer and designer-oriented communities and platforms to boost brand recognition. Finally, they engage communities on Reddit, Facebook, Twitter, Discord, Dribbble, Instagram, and LinkedIn. embed:tweet An example of Themeselection active social media engagement
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Companies ↔️ Vetted Engineers
|
$85K
monthly
|
—
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$498
to start
|
74
out of 100
|
DevSignal started out of necessity. When my co-...
DevSignal started out of necessity. When my co-founder Sergio and I were trying to build our previous startup, we realized how expensive and difficult it was to hire top talent. We both grew up outside the US, so we reached out to our networks back home but soon discovered the challenges of finding and vetting engineers remotely, plus the complexity of managing country-specific compliance and global payroll. We were always engaged in startups communities in LA and realized most founders had the same issue. They were building fast and needed to ship even faster - but constantly struggling to hire strong engineers. Either they couldn’t afford top talent locally, or they’d waste weeks interviewing developers who looked good on paper but couldn’t keep up with startup demands. We looked at the the other nearshore hiring platforms and realized most of them either threw resumes at you or weren’t built with startups in mind. No one was vetting for real-world problem-solving, speed, or adaptability-the stuff that actually matters in a startup. Or as we put it someone that has drive as big as the chaos of a startup. Not a single one of them had a personal touch, they all seemed transactional. We built connections in regions we found great talent in, and got creative with our vetting process to allow us to assess technical skills, communication, cultural and startup fit. Once we had a couple of engineers we would trust for our own startup, we began manually matching a few of them with founders we already knew. To show faith in our vetting process we offered to pay for the first week as a trial period. Which is something we take pride in and do till today. That turned into our first few customers. From there, we built out our team and processes to keep the same personal touch at scale. Compared to past ideas, this one had real pull from the market. Founders were hiring fast, and coming back for more hires. That was the validation. We built the solution we wanted so it felt like we were solving a painful problem, not convincing people to care.
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DevSignal’s first product was built through man...
DevSignal’s first product was built through manual effort and hands-on processes rather than a sophisticated digital platform from day one. The founders began by leveraging their personal and professional networks to identify talented engineers in regions where they already had trusted contacts. Instead of relying on automated vetting, they established a manual review process to assess technical skills, communication, and startup fit—focusing on thoroughly understanding each candidate. In terms of tools, early operations were managed with simple resources like whiteboards to map out pain points and match engineers with startups. The team manually paired vetted engineers with founders they already knew, acting as a high-touch, concierge placement service. They iterated quickly, testing their matching criteria and vetting standards on a small group of candidates before expanding. The initial working version—essentially a high-touch manual process—came together in just a few weeks. A key challenge was developing a vetting process that reliably identified engineers who could thrive in fast-paced, constantly changing startup environments; this required creativity and close attention to real-world problem-solving abilities, not just resumes. The founders also faced the common surprise that most competing platforms were overly transactional and automated, lacking the personal touch and rigorous vetting needed by startups, which influenced DevSignal’s manual, founder-driven approach.
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Most of our early growth came from building rea...
Most of our early growth came from building real relationships and delivering when it mattered. We took PG’s “do things that don’t scale” to heart. Every founder we worked with had our number. They’d text or call anytime they needed something. We’ve since moved to shared Slack channels, but that same responsiveness still defines us By staying close to our customers, we kept iterating on the experience until founders genuinely loved the process. That set the stage for our two biggest growth engines—referrals and word of mouth. In tight startup circles, news travels fast, especially when something works From there, we leaned into it. We launched referral programs for founders, angel investors, and venture studios. We also continued partnering with startup communities and VCs to give their portfolios access to vetted talent. Once we had our first few wins, we doubled down on helping our customers grow—then asked if they could introduce us to others. One founder led to five. One venture partner led to an entire portfolio. And we partnered with startup communities and VCs to give their portfolios access to vetted talent. Twitter helped a lot too. Showing up daily, sharing the journey, being transparent—that created trust and opened a ton of doors We also set aggressive goals. One of them was landing a “whale” every month. Took longer than we thought, but after months of conversations, we signed a deal with one of the biggest AI labs in SF to help them hire 500+ engineers across many tech stacks. Along the way, we realized some founders needed more than just engineers. They wanted full solutions - teams that could own product delivery end to end. Instead of turning that business down, we partnered with trusted PMs and fractional CTOs to offer full-service development when it made sense. That flexibility let us grow with our customers and capture opportunities others would have passed on and unlock a new customer segment My advice for founders would be to treat growth like an experiment. You won’t know what works until you try it. The key is to have a bias for action. Test, learn, and double down on what clicks. Your network is one of your most valuable assets. If you don’t have one, start building it now, online or in person. It compounds fast
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Businesses ↔️ Part-time Professionals
|
$1M
monthly
|
—
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$5K
to start
|
72
out of 100
|
The idea for Intch came during a time of massiv...
The idea for Intch came during a time of massive change in the job market. After COVID, WFH untethered people from offices. Many moved to new places or even countries, realizing they didn’t need to live near expensive urban centers just for work. As an expat in the U.S., I felt this shift personally when I was trying to hire people for my projects. It wasn’t easy, and most of the time, I was relying on old classmates or distant connections to find the right people.  My image At the same time, the job market was undergoing a major transformation. By December 2023, 22 million Americans were already switching to part-time work, the highest mobility levels in two decades. Big companies were making headlines with layoffs, and the old model of endless hiring and company loyalty was fading fast. At the same time, SMBs were feeling the pressure even more. They couldn’t afford to hire large full-time teams, so they started turning to part-time superprofessionals to fill the gaps efficiently. Seeing these trends, I realized there was a huge opportunity to connect professionals and businesses in a way that fit the new reality of work. That’s how Intch was born. Our platform makes these connections simple, smart, and effective for everyone involved.
 My image
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We started building Intch by looking at how peo...
We started building Intch by looking at how people network and what they need most from it. Offline networking works because it’s built on trust and fun (think about how every great event has a party!). But online platforms? They often miss the mark when it comes to creating that same vibe of trust and enjoyment. We also found that people network for three main reasons: finding clients, hiring talent, or expanding their circle. Expats stood out as the most active networkers, likely because they need extra support when adapting to new environments. To build trust, we made verification a key feature, requiring users to confirm their identity with small payments. This helped us create a high-quality, trustworthy community. The first version of Intch was a web platform launched during the pandemic, when people wanted to connect with like-minded peers while staying at home. But as the world moved on, priorities shifted. Networking became more about solving specific problems, like finding the right talent or closing a deal. We realized a mobile app would better fit with users’ busy lives, so we focused on making the platform easy to use and goal-oriented. Our biggest breakthrough was the matching algorithm. Instead of just helping people find who they already know, we designed it to suggest who they should meet next based on their current goals. It looks at users’ current experience and future interests to make smart, meaningful connections. This approach turned networking into a tool that drives real results, helping people and businesses achieve their goals in today’s fast-changing work environment.
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Our growth has been directly tied to strategic ...
Our growth has been directly tied to strategic part-time hiring and an agile approach when testing hypotheses. When funding became tight, we had to make the most of our limited resources. We shifted to hyper-focused hypothesis testing, making sure we didn’t spend more than 1-2 weeks on validation. This allowed us to quickly abandon low-performing tactics and double down on strategies that showed immediate, tangible results. Our business stands out because of our hyper-focused approach to growth, driven by strategic part-time hiring and rapid hypothesis testing. When funding was tight, we shifted to validating ideas in 1-2 weeks, quickly abandoning underperforming tactics and doubling down on those with immediate, tangible results. This agile strategy allowed us to optimize resources and achieve 70x growth in just 10 months.  My image What sets us apart is how we deeply listen to user needs and pivot accordingly. Initially a general networking platform, we noticed users gravitating toward specific goals like hiring and sales. By rapidly testing ad sprints on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, we validated which features users were willing to pay for and focused exclusively on delivering those. This data-driven adaptability made us highly effective at addressing real problems, not just assumptions.  My image The game-changer was our strategic use of part-time hiring through our own platform. We brought in experts for niche tasks, like B2C Instagram acquisition, instead of relying on generalists, allowing us to scale smarter and faster. By combining the right talent with precise problem-solving, we created a business that’s both lean and impactful, delivering real value where it matters most.
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EU e-Commerce Sellers ↔️ Expansion Agencies
|
$150K
monthly
|
180
days
|
$36.59
per visitor
|
$70K
to start
|
50
out of 100
|
Starting as teenage online marketplace sellers,...
Starting as teenage online marketplace sellers, Pavlos Deloore and Tijl Steeman faced logistical chaos when expanding beyond Belgium and the Netherlands. Realizing the absence of all-in-one solutions, they created Meezy, now earning over $150,000 monthly and helping other sellers conquer European markets.
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The founders started by validating the need for...
The founders started by validating the need for their service with outreach to sellers in their network, confirming that many were interested in centralized marketplace management for Europe. After confirming demand, they invested about $20,000 into professional branding with a Belgian agency, establishing the Meezy name, slogan, and all visual assets. To prepare for the build, they mapped out the business structure, necessary roles (sales, account management, digital creatives, integrators), and selected specific partners and software for cross-marketplace data synchronization, initially costing $1,500/month for up to five sales channels and 15,000 SKUs. The upfront build costs totaled around $70,000, funded by the founders' savings, previous e-commerce profits, and a private investor loan. The process from concept to first working version spanned several months leading up to autumn 2022, with key challenges including identifying scalable software solutions for unlimited channels/SKUs and assembling a multidisciplinary team able to handle the complexity of multiple European marketplaces.
|
**Email Outreach**
They scraped Amazon seller...
Email Outreach
They scraped Amazon seller information and ran targeted cold email campaigns in Belgium and the Netherlands, resulting in a high response rate and their first customer deals within two weeks of launch.
Why it worked: Personalization and targeting of marketplace sellers generated qualified B2B leads efficiently and at scale. LinkedIn Direct Outreach
Targeted LinkedIn messages were sent to marketing managers and decision-makers at relevant brands, complementing their email strategy.
Why it worked: Direct engagement on a professional platform reached key stakeholders, making outreach feel more personal and relevant to recipients. SEO
The marketing team optimized the website with keyword research and SEO-friendly content focused on both short and long-tail terms, ensuring Meezy ranked for high-intent queries from European DTC brands.
Why it worked: Ranking for targeted search terms brought in steady organic leads from brands actively seeking marketplace expansion help. Meta Ads & Social Content
They leveraged Meta Ads (Instagram and Facebook) to build funnels and retarget visitors, alongside regular posting of original content and success stories to foster brand presence.
Why it worked: Paid and organic social media built awareness rapidly, while retargeting converted interested prospects previously exposed to Meezy’s brand.
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Entrepreneurs ↔️ Software Providers
|
$8.5K
monthly
|
40
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$5K
to start
|
92
out of 100
|
Frustrated by traditional deal platforms taking...
Frustrated by traditional deal platforms taking up to 50% cut without contributing much, 22-year-old Jasper Cyan launched Deal Quokka, a streamlined marketplace offering over 20 million digital resources for entrepreneurs, making $15,000 in sales within the first 36 hours.
|
The development of Deal Quokka began with Jaspe...
The development of Deal Quokka began with Jasper Cyan building a foundational version while managing setbacks with developers at Plasfy. The site was created on WordPress using the Elementor Page Builder, which Jasper favored for its simplicity and visual design capabilities. Over two to three weeks, he dedicated 14-hour workdays to develop a comprehensive platform that initially featured hundreds of digital products and resources he had previously created. To expand the offering, he licensed additional content from other vendors through lump-sum agreements, enabling the platform to provide a wide range of resources without incurring ongoing usage fees. This rigorous self-involved process allowed Jasper to maintain control over the creation and ensure the platform aligned precisely with his vision, although it required intense labor and learning to bring it to life.
|
#### Existing Customer Base and Upsell Strategy...
Existing Customer Base and Upsell StrategyDeal Quokka leveraged Jasper Cyan’s existing customer base from his design software company, Plasfy, to grow its audience. By integrating banners in Plasfy, the business was able to guide existing users naturally towards Deal Quokka. This strategy worked because it targeted an audience already familiar with the concept of deals and digital resources, creating a seamless user transition between the two platforms. The approach effectively capitalized on the trust and familiarity that users had developed with Jasper's previous products, thus reducing the acquisition cost and effort. Why it worked: This strategy resonated due to the synergy between Plasfy and Deal Quokka's offerings and audience. Users who benefited from Plasfy's design tools were likely to find value in the diverse resources Deal Quokka offered, enhancing cross-platform appeal. Additionally, the non-intrusive nature of the upsell banners ensured a customer-friendly experience, thereby maintaining user engagement and interest without being pushy. Word-of-Mouth and Community EngagementDeal Quokka cultivated growth through fostering a strong community around its products. Jasper focused on building personal connections with users by infusing his presence throughout the platform, from personalized thank-you notes to direct interaction via Facebook groups. Moreover, the company launched a customer video testimonial campaign, offering cash prizes to participants who shared their experiences. Why it worked: The personal connection and community-driven approach built a sense of loyalty and trust among users. When customers feel a brand is approachable and genuinely invested in their satisfaction, they're more likely to become repeat buyers and even advocates for the brand. The video testimonials added authenticity and relatability to the marketing, showcasing real user satisfaction that potential customers could trust. Early Backer ExclusivityDuring its launch, Deal Quokka offered a limited-time “Founders Platinum VIP” membership to its existing customer base. This exclusive early access not only provided a sense of urgency and scarcity but also turned early adopters into brand advocates. The cap on available spots, driven by practical limitations associated with licensing agreements, further enhanced the perceived exclusivity. Why it worked: Exclusivity creates a compelling offer that leverages the psychological triggers of scarcity and urgency. It persuades potential customers to act quickly rather than procrastinate. The success of this initiative was evident in the swift selling out of the initial spots, validating the platform's value proposition and creating a core group of enthusiastic supporters who contributed to ongoing word-of-mouth promotion.
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Consumers ↔️ Personal Stylists
|
$223K
monthly
|
—
days
|
—
per visitor
|
—
to start
|
42
out of 100
|
While working in strategy and finance for major...
While working in strategy and finance for major e-commerce companies, Elena Volkova realized her outfit choices impacted her confidence and success. Frustrated by the lack of effective personal styling solutions, she launched Style DNA, now boasting 300K active users and $3 million in annual revenue.
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The founders began Style DNA by conducting hund...
The founders began Style DNA by conducting hundreds of hours of user research and in-depth interviews to define the core problems and needs for their target audience. For the MVP, they teamed up with an image consultant to label several million datasets, which were used to train the AI Styling Assistant—a proprietary digital product that powers selfie-based color analysis and personalized outfit recommendations. The initial product focused on features not widely available in other styling apps, such as automated appearance analysis and an internal shopping marketplace. Key tech components included custom AI development, large-scale data annotation, and integration of mobile app features, though the precise tech stack is not specified. Iterative testing and feedback loops were crucial, as the team frequently revised the design and user experience based on user results; building the dataset and AI model required substantial effort and was a notable challenge during this phase.
|
**Paid Social Media**
The team invested heavily...
Paid Social Media
The team invested heavily in visually rich paid ads on platforms like Instagram, focusing on content that demonstrated their unique color analysis feature. Short-form video content, like Instagram reels analyzing celebrity outfits, generated viral traction (e.g., one Zendaya reel reached 3.5 million views and 166k likes).
Why it worked: Sharing visually compelling, timely content resonated with fashion-interested audiences and motivated them to try the app’s styling analysis for themselves. Organic Social Media (Instagram/TikTok)
Style DNA rapidly grew its audience through viral posts capitalizing on trending events, such as their Met Gala outfit analyses, which attracted broad attention and sparked large waves of sign-ups. Their approach emphasized fast, relevant responses to cultural moments paired with educational or interactive style content.
Why it worked: Leveraging real-time moments and relatable visuals established Style DNA as a credible, authoritative voice in fashion and encouraged organic, word-of-mouth growth. Marketplace Partnerships
By building a database of over 150 retail partners, Style DNA integrated an internal marketplace, allowing users to directly purchase recommended outfits. This partnership network both increased the perceived value of the app and enabled collaborative promotional efforts.
Why it worked: Seamless shopping within the app removed friction and incentivized user action, while co-marketing with retailers boosted reach across different customer bases.
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Gamers ↔️ Game Developers
|
$85K
monthly
|
180
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$50K
to start
|
67
out of 100
|
Evgeny Unegovsky, leveraging his extensive back...
Evgeny Unegovsky, leveraging his extensive background in MarTech and IT, co-founded Subscrible with Igor Diev after noticing his child's frustration with ads in mobile games, leading to their ad-free gaming catalog app that already boasts over 15,000 users.
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The development of Subscrible began with creati...
The development of Subscrible began with creating a landing page that described the concept and offered a subscription option, followed by running Facebook Ads to gauge interest. The high CTR of over 5% and more than 50 user subscriptions indicated a strong market demand. The initial prototype was primarily focused on verifying the possibility of disabling ads in games using a two-step app process: capturing user info and verifying user transfer. The development involved using Flutter and Dart for building natively compiled applications from a single codebase, enabling faster development and cost savings. The process was challenging, especially in convincing stakeholders of the feasibility of the SDK and integrating it with existing systems without the need for game developers to make significant changes.
|
#### Networking at Gaming Conferences
Subscrib...
Networking at Gaming ConferencesSubscrible actively participated in gaming conferences like the Israel Mobile Summit, the Nordic Game Conference, and the WN Conference in Belgrade and Abu Dhabi. These events allowed them to network directly with game developers and explain the benefits of their platform in person. This approach helped establish valuable relationships and increased visibility among potential partners and clients. Why it worked: Direct interactions at conferences foster trust and provide immediate feedback from industry professionals. By engaging with developers face-to-face, Subscrible could effectively communicate its unique selling proposition and build rapport, which is often more impactful than digital communication alone. LinkedIn and WebinarsSubscrible utilized LinkedIn for connecting with developers and hosted regular webinars that attracted over 50 participants. These webinars shared insights into monetization and retention strategies without intrusive ads, adding value for developers and building a community around Subscrible. Why it worked: LinkedIn and webinars are effective for B2B communication, allowing businesses to reach a professional audience with targeted content. Hosting webinars provided an interactive platform to engage developers, showcase expertise, and position Subscrible as thought leaders in the gaming industry. Partnerships with Game DevelopersBy creating a mutually beneficial platform, Subscrible spread user acquisition costs across multiple game developers. Developers gained access to an audience that valued their time without intrusive ads, enhancing player engagement and reducing costs. Why it worked: Partnerships with developers leveraged the shared interests of both parties to create a seamless gaming experience. This collaborative approach not only lowered advertising costs but also increased game engagement, benefiting both developers and gamers financially and experientially.
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Gift Buyers ↔️ Leather Artisans
|
$100K
monthly
|
40
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$70K
to start
|
50
out of 100
|
After moving to the U.S., Taha's father started...
After moving to the U.S., Taha's father started sewing leather items to make ends meet. In 2017, they opened an Etsy shop selling personalized leather keychains, which quickly grew to a $100k/mo business.
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The founders started making personalized leathe...
The founders started making personalized leather keychains in a small apartment using basic manual methods—Taha's father hand-cut and sewed leather sourced from Turkey. For increased volume, they partnered with overseas manufacturers to supply finished leather goods, focusing in-house only on personalization (like engraving). Essential equipment for customizing included laser engravers and similar machinery, which Taha, with an engineering background, set up and maintained. The initial prototypes were produced in their home, using the garage for inventory and the living room for order fulfillment; multiple manufacturer samples and customer feedback informed product iterations. They reached a reliable, quality version after a few rounds of sampling and adjustments, with the process from basement startup to market-ready product taking several months, primarily challenged by the difficulty and trial/error of overseas manufacturing.
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**Marketplaces (Etsy, Amazon)**
They listed the...
Marketplaces (Etsy, Amazon)
They listed their personalized keychains and gifts on Etsy and Amazon, with nearly 95% of business coming from these platforms (e.g., $446,744 in Amazon sales in one year).
Why it worked: Marketplaces provided instant access to a large, gift-seeking customer base, driving high sales with minimal upfront marketing spend. Pricing Promotions
After launching with higher prices and low order volume, they tested a 30% discount, resulting in daily order volume jumping from 2–3 to around 20.
Why it worked: Competitive pricing lowered barriers for first-time buyers, increasing both sales and repeat purchases. Digital Ads (Instagram, YouTube, Google)
They spent heavily (e.g., $69,000 on ads in one year) but found customer acquisition cost too high for profitability and eventually stopped all ad spending.
Why it worked/failed: Ads could drive short-term traffic, but high costs erased profit—proving less effective than organic and marketplace-driven sales. Word of Mouth and Reviews
Rapid accumulation of positive customer reviews (over 10,000, averaging 4.9 stars) helped them stand out in the crowded personalized gift market.
Why it worked: High ratings and organic referrals built trust with new customers, fueling ongoing organic growth via social proof.
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Brands ↔️ eCommerce Agencies
|
$150K
monthly
|
90
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$1K
to start
|
90
out of 100
|
Ronen Lee Wolf, Founder of Senditures, discover...
Ronen Lee Wolf, Founder of Senditures, discovered his entrepreneurial path after quitting his job and dropping out of college. Unfulfilled in traditional roles, he mastered eCommerce during his tenure at a beauty company, implementing a multi-channel selling strategy that doubled revenue and ultimately inspired him to launch Senditures, now on track to hit $2 million in 2024.
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The founders of Vysn (via Senditures) initially...
The founders of Vysn (via Senditures) initially sourced new and used books from garage sales, estate sales, OfferUp, and store closures, manually listing them for sale on Amazon and eBay. Early on, operations were very hands-on, with inventory tracked by spreadsheet—primarily Google Sheets—with no inventory management software or automated backend systems. As they explored scaling, they used specialized software like ZenArbitrage to speed up sourcing for profitable textbook arbitrage. The first working process relied on manual labor: collecting, sorting, and selling physical inventory, iterating their approach as they attempted new revenue models and categories beyond books. It took months of trial and error before discovering the more scalable strategy of multi-channel selling for partner brands, with the biggest challenges being the time expense, organizational chaos, and the unscalable nature of the initial book-focused business.
|
**PR (Press Coverage and TV Appearances)**
Vysn...
PR (Press Coverage and TV Appearances)
Vysn’s branded products were featured on major TV shows like The Talk and The Kelly Clarkson Show, as well as in high-traffic publications such as the New York Post, Mashable, TMZ, and Boing Boing. These placements resulted in millions of viewers and readers seeing their products, e.g., New York Post (148M/month), Mashable (18M/month), and TMZ (54M/month).
Why it worked: Large media spotlights created instant credibility and massive exposure, powering direct customer acquisition with no advertising spend. Product Sourcing for Marketplace Partnerships
They consistently added new, eye-catching products to their catalog, securing placements and deals on exclusive marketplaces and TV shopping platforms like MorningSave. One EMS neck massager rapidly became the top seller, moving 5,000 units in three weeks without promotion by simply getting in front of a gift-shopping audience at the right time.
Why it worked: Keeping the product selection fresh and relevant ensured ongoing marketplace demand and repeated impulse sales, maximizing revenue per channel. Multi-Channel eCommerce Distribution
Vysn/Senditures used a distribution model spanning 50+ online sales channels, including less competitive, high-activity marketplaces. This diversified their risk beyond Amazon and attracted ongoing sales with little dependence on ads.
Why it worked: Multi-channel selling broadened visibility, captured distinct customer bases, and kept acquisition costs minimal, contributing to rapid, sustainable growth.
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Independent Artists ↔️ Media Buyers
|
$175K
monthly
|
7
days
|
$35.00
per visitor
|
$20
to start
|
90
out of 100
|
While experimenting with "semi-legal" music pro...
While experimenting with "semi-legal" music production software during his business studies, Adrian Wood posted his beats online just for fun. When artists started buying his beats, he revolutionized the beat-selling industry by introducing non-exclusive licenses and PayPal "buy now" buttons, pioneering digital music licensing; in 2024, his company grossed $2.1 million.
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Initially, Anno Domini Nation was built with ju...
Initially, Anno Domini Nation was built with just a $20 SoundClick subscription, where Adrian Wood used HTML to transform his profile into a store with purchase buttons and upgrade options. This DIY approach allowed him to quickly set up a beat licensing business by customizing his artist page. To create the beats, he used digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Magix Music Maker, Reason, and later, FL Studio. The first version of his product required a few hours for basic setup, followed by a week of HTML learning and adjustments, reflecting a rapid and resourceful development process. While the initial website was quick to build, the challenge lay in mastering these tools and platforms to create an effective and appealing business model that stood out in the emerging online beat market.
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#### Email Marketing
Anno Domini Nation has fo...
Email MarketingAnno Domini Nation has found significant success through building a robust email list. They use various strategies to attract new subscribers, such as offering free tagged mp3 demos and free artist marketing training in exchange for joining their email list. These leads are nurtured through a long-term email sequence that builds trust and ultimately leads to high conversion rates. Why it worked: The strategy works because it provides real value upfront, attracting pre-qualified leads genuinely interested in the products. A well-maintained email list allows for direct communication with potential customers and supports ongoing engagement, making it easier to pitch new offers and products. Facebook AdsThe business has effectively utilized Facebook Ads to attract new leads and drive sales, noting a strong return on investment in their campaigns. Despite challenges such as changes in Apple's privacy settings, the introduction of new Campaign+ settings has reinvigorated their advertising success on the platform. Why it worked: Facebook Ads work well for Anno Domini Nation due to the precise targeting options available, allowing them to reach their specific audience effectively. The platform enables them to showcase their offerings directly to musicians and artists, generating interest and sales. Anno Domini Nation also leverages YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for traffic and lead generation. They share music content with embedded purchase links that direct users to their platform. Their public Facebook Group further helps in capturing new leads by collecting email addresses upon joining. Why it worked: Social media platforms provide a massive pool of potential customers. By sharing engaging content, Anno Domini Nation capitalizes on the inherent virality of social media, which helps them reach wider audiences at no extra cost. Interactive posts and videos not only entertain but also draw organic traffic to their site. SMS and WhatsApp MarketingThe company capitalizes on the high open rates of SMS and WhatsApp messages by collecting phone numbers in exchange for additional incentives like free beats. This method enhances their communication channels beyond email and maintains high engagement with customers. Why it worked: Text messaging boasts impressive open and response rates, making it an effective tool for direct and immediate communication. By using SMS and WhatsApp, Anno Domini Nation can provide timely updates, promotions, and offers, ensuring that their messages are seen and acted upon promptly by users.
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Gaming Brands ↔️ Micro-streamers
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$15K
monthly
|
—
days
|
—
per visitor
|
—
to start
|
67
out of 100
|
Dima Okhrimchuk, a passionate gamer, saw an opp...
Dima Okhrimchuk, a passionate gamer, saw an opportunity after an MBA at UC Berkeley and co-founding a CS:GO organization in 2020. Pivoting from managing pro gamers, he launched Drope.me, an AI-enabled influencer marketing platform, which has since facilitated over 170 campaigns and paid out $50K to micro-influencers.
|
The founding team started by building Organizat...
The founding team started by building Organization.GG, an MVP that let viewers pay or donate for a chance to play with pro gamers or influencers during live streams on Twitch. They developed the initial product with a small team before securing their first funding, focusing on rapid prototyping and fast validation. After a year, based on user feedback and industry insights, they pivoted to Drope.me—a platform for gaming-focused giveaways and 'Drops' where participants completed tasks for prizes. The first working version was live within roughly six months, evolving from a basic giveaway tool to an automated marketing marketplace. Key challenges included developing reliable automated tracking for Steam wishlists/purchases and in-game actions, integrating unique CTAs, and responding quickly to feedback cycles to improve and adapt the platform for both brands and micro-influencers.
|
**Direct Outreach**
The team proactively cont...
Direct Outreach
The team proactively contacted both gaming companies and micro-influencers using direct messages and email campaigns, often leveraging tools like Reply.io for scale.
Why it worked: This hands-on approach kickstarted both supply and demand, allowing Drope.me to quickly build up use cases and credibility with case studies. PR and Event Marketing
Drope.me gained visibility by launching on Product Hunt—achieving a Top 3 Product of the Day—and participating in major industry conferences like Gamescom, where they hosted their own mixer event with over 50 attendees.
Why it worked: These efforts tapped into targeted, enthusiast communities with high brand and developer concentration, generating qualified leads and building trust quickly. Community Initiatives & Giveaways
Initiatives like the Indie Roadshow, which granted $12K+ in free campaign credits to indie developers, and the Drope.me Indie Game Awards brought in hundreds of companies and nearly 900 streamers through low-barrier engagement and rewards.
Why it worked: Allowing developers and streamers to trial the platform directly created product adoption, built word-of-mouth, and converted trial users into paying customers. Email Marketing & Content
Regular newsletters, platform updates, and targeted onboarding emails kept both brands and creators informed and engaged.
Why it worked: Consistent communication nurtured retention and re-engagement, especially in a two-sided marketplace where ongoing participation is key.
|
|
|
eCommerce Sellers ↔️ Print Providers
|
$700K
monthly
|
30
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$750K
to start
|
58
out of 100
|
Inspired by a childhood fascination with CMYK p...
Inspired by a childhood fascination with CMYK printing, Mark ventured into the print-on-demand industry in China after discovering Printful in 2015. Leveraging his software development background, he launched JetPrint, now generating $700,000 monthly and prominently featured on Shopify.
|
The founders assembled an independent IT team o...
The founders assembled an independent IT team of six members from their existing software development company to create JetPrint’s initial product. They focused on building a Shopify app that would allow e-commerce sellers to customize products, integrate with Shopify stores, and process payments. The most critical technical challenge was developing a mockup generator for users to visualize customized items, which became the core feature. In the early version, many extra functions were achieved through third-party licenses, leading to a basic but functioning platform. It took about 45 days for the team to develop a working app and pass Shopify's app review, with emphasis on compliance, user privacy, and integration stability. Key challenges involved ensuring compatibility across browsers and creating a smooth integration with Shopify's backend, particularly under resource constraints typical for a small, focused tech team.
|
**Shopify App Store Feature**
Within two months...
Shopify App Store Feature
Within two months of launch, Shopify approved and prominently featured JetPrint’s app in the Shopify App Store. This visibility quickly led to 1,000 installations within six months, driving initial traction directly from Shopify’s ecosystem.
Why it worked: Featuring in the App Store gave JetPrint immediate credibility and access to highly relevant e-commerce store owners looking for print-on-demand solutions. Forum & Facebook Group Marketing
They promoted JetPrint in e-commerce-focused forums and Facebook groups, using posts and videos to showcase their product capabilities and drive traffic to their dashboard. This targeted outreach resulted in consistent, linear user growth and a 30% month-on-month increase in users shortly after launch.
Why it worked: Direct engagement in communities where e-commerce sellers gather enabled JetPrint to reach its target users at low cost and build early trust. Google Ads
JetPrint prioritized Google Ads with a focus on high-intent search keywords related to print-on-demand services. They carefully researched and selected keywords, allowing them to attract precisely the right audience of e-commerce sellers.
Why it worked: Paid search captured users actively looking for specific solutions, resulting in more qualified leads and increased customer acquisition efficiency.
|
|
|
Homeowners ↔️ AV/Home Solution Providers
|
$4M
monthly
|
90
days
|
$8.14
per visitor
|
$15K
to start
|
66
out of 100
|
Former psychologist Bob Cole founded World Wide...
Former psychologist Bob Cole founded World Wide Stereo in 1979 to simplify home electronics, evolving it into a $56-62M e-commerce and custom installation powerhouse by addressing customers' needs for stress-free, high-quality entertainment environments.
|
To create the first World Wide Stereo store in ...
To create the first World Wide Stereo store in 1979, founder Bob Cole did most of the physical work himself, building out a 1,500 sqft retail space from scratch with help from his wife and friends. The process involved hands-on construction, store layout design, and sourcing hi-fi audio products for the initial inventory. At the time, technology was largely analog with a focus on hi-fi audio equipment and installation. The first prototype, essentially the physical store experience and service model, was shaped directly by customer needs and feedback in the early months, requiring quick adaptation but few formal iterations. Undercapitalization was a significant hurdle, so resources for build-out and product acquisition were stretched. There is no mention of specialized tools, technology stacks, or digital products in the initial phase—success relied on practical construction skills and relationship-building with product suppliers. The store was up and running within a year, which included hiring their first key team member for sales and technical leadership.
|
**Word of Mouth & Customer Referrals**
Word rap...
Word of Mouth & Customer Referrals
Word rapidly spread about World Wide Stereo through satisfied customers, leading to repeat business and referrals in the local community and beyond. They prioritized exceptional service and knowledgeable staff, which led customers to recommend them to others.
Why it worked: High-touch, quality service created loyal customers who became brand advocates at minimal marketing cost. Radio Advertising
Early growth was also fueled by humorous, memorable radio ads scheduled during drive time to reach the same audience repeatedly over months. These created a cult following and are still recalled by local customers decades later.
Why it worked: Consistency and unique, entertaining ads built strong brand awareness on a limited budget by making advertising stand out from competitors. Manufacturer and Partner Networks
They developed a referral and support network with audio/video manufacturers and media partners, expanding their reach and credibility within the niche. These relationships helped attract enthusiasts and gain industry endorsements.
Why it worked: Third-party validation and referral traffic from trusted partners helped build authority and trust with new and returning customers. E-commerce & Multi-Channel Online Sales
In 2008 they launched a transactional website built in-house, which doubled revenue in its first year and led to an average 20% annual growth over the next five years. Later, they sold on Amazon and other third-party sites, increasing sales in those channels and cross-promoting in-store and online options.
Why it worked: A strong e-commerce presence allowed them to reach customers far beyond their physical location and adapt quickly to shifting shopping behaviors.
|
|
|
Fashion/Furniture Buyers ↔️ Resellers
|
$4K
monthly
|
1
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$0
to start
|
90
out of 100
|
Shelby realized her knack for reselling when sh...
Shelby realized her knack for reselling when she sold a bridesmaid dress on Poshmark and saw its potential. Now, with $4,000/month in revenue, she and her husband manage multi-platform sales and coach others, proving that persistence pays off.
|
The initial product for Rooted Drawers was sele...
The initial product for Rooted Drawers was selected, prepared, and listed by hand, beginning with items already available at home—such as a bridesmaid dress. Shelby inspected each product in person to ensure suitability for online resale, applying personal standards for quality. As experience grew, sourcing expanded to thrift stores and yard sales to supplement inventory, with some attempts at wholesale that were eventually deprioritized in favor of curated individual selection or bulk purchases through local cleanouts. Tools for the backend included basic digital organization via Google Workspace and Slack, with shipping handled through integrated platform features and tools like Pirate Ship for cost-effective shipment options. The first working version took shape almost immediately, as platforms like Poshmark allowed fast onboarding—listing the first item took only minutes, but growing inventory and refining packaging was a process of continuous iteration. Early challenges included learning the backend business organization, managing physical storage space, and keeping upfront expenses low by reusing packing materials.
|
**Marketplace Cross-Listing**
Rooted Drawers ...
Marketplace Cross-Listing
Rooted Drawers leveraged popular platforms like eBay, Poshmark, and Mercari as main sales channels, and regularly cross-listed items to Depop, Etsy, and Kidizen to maximize visibility and tap into different buyer audiences.
Why it worked: Using multiple established marketplaces allowed them to reach large, active pools of buyers without heavy upfront investment in their own website traffic. Content Marketing (Blogging & SEO)
They created and maintained a blog that shares reselling tips, business advice, and authentic personal stories, helping to organically boost store and site visibility and attract interest from the reselling community.
Why it worked: Valuable, targeted content drew organic traffic from Google and built trust among potential customers seeking genuine guidance and stories. Customer Experience & Retention
Shelby focused on delivering standout packaging—thank you cards, ribbons, and stickers—and highly responsive customer service to create a memorable buying experience. This effort is reflected in over 99% 5-star ratings and significant repeat business.
Why it worked: Personal touches and consistent communication fostered loyalty, making buyers more likely to return and recommend the store. Social Media (TikTok & Pinterest)
After initially operating without social media to focus on internal growth, Rooted Drawers began posting regularly on TikTok and Pinterest, sharing behind-the-scenes insights, product features, and tips for fellow resellers.
Why it worked: These visual platforms grow awareness, drive qualified traffic, and allow connection with a broader, engaged audience.
|
|
|
Consumers ↔️ Audio Equipment Distributors
|
$1M
monthly
|
365
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$1.5K
to start
|
72
out of 100
|
Jeffery M. Goldman, founder of Big Jeff Audio, ...
Jeffery M. Goldman, founder of Big Jeff Audio, turned his side hustle of selling eBay items like home security cameras into a $1 million-per-month car audio business after responding to an opportunity email and starting his own e-commerce journey.
|
The first iteration of Big Jeff Audio started a...
The first iteration of Big Jeff Audio started as an eBay and Amazon storefront, with products sourced through close-out purchases and relationships established during the founder's time at Best Connections, an automotive wire distributor. Jeff leveraged eBay and Amazon for sales, using trial and error to list and bundle items; his earliest inventory included car audio components as well as other product categories like home security cameras and adult products. The initial tech stack was basic—plain, templated websites and direct marketplace use—with all website building done solo by the founder, before moving to Shopify once it was available. First product listings were often single items, but he soon innovated by creating bundled listings (e.g., amps with matching speakers), which involved negotiating discounts with brands and solving for compatibility. The timeline from side hustling to a functioning, profit-generating storefront was about one to two years (roughly 2015–2017). Initial challenges included a limited number of allowed listings on eBay, difficulty building a website before platforms like Shopify matured, skepticism about web store returns, and needing to handle logistics like storage and pallet pickups personally, especially after separating from his day job.
|
**Marketplace Presence (eBay & Amazon)**
Big Je...
Marketplace Presence (eBay & Amazon)
Big Jeff Audio grew initially by selling on eBay and Amazon, capitalizing on in-demand categories and bundling complementary products into combo listings. These channels drove the bulk of retail sales in the early years.
Why it worked: Established marketplaces provided ready customer bases, credibility, and the ability to experiment with listings for quick feedback and sales. Product Bundling & Combo Listings
The founder distinguished the business by listing bundles—multiple speakers, subs, or amp/speaker combos matched for compatibility and value—unlike competitors who offered only single-item listings.
Why it worked: Bundling made it easier for customers to get complete solutions at a better price, improving conversion rates and differentiating the brand. Social Media & YouTube
Posting frequently across platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and a rapidly growing YouTube channel (growing from 2k to over 18k subscribers in six months) through educational and behind-the-scenes content, giveaways, and live engagement.
Why it worked: High posting volume and authentic storytelling increased visibility and loyalty, while giveaways incentivized engagement and subscriptions. Email & Text Marketing
Regular campaigns via Klaviyo targeted existing customers with sales, product releases, and updates, while customer service was centralized through Gorgias for fast responses.
Why it worked: These channels kept Big Jeff Audio top-of-mind and encouraged repeat purchases with personalized offers and reliable support.
|
|
|
Companies ↔️ Remote Tech Talent
|
$300K
monthly
|
14
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$500
to start
|
90
out of 100
|
David Stepania, the Founder of ThirstySprout, c...
David Stepania, the Founder of ThirstySprout, came up with the idea for his business while taking a break on a Hawaiian beach. With a background in startups and a realization that building an extraordinary startup required an extraordinary technical team, David decided to solve the problem of connecting startups with top technical talent they could trust. ThirstySprout was born out of this desire for growth and success, and it has since grown to a team of over 40 people with $2.5 million in gross revenue last year.
|
ThirstySprout began as a humble product develop...
ThirstySprout began as a humble product development agency with just two founders, initially taking on small, underfunded projects to build a foundational client base and accumulate testimonials. The team focused on over-delivering for clients, which provided early case studies, even though this work was not particularly scalable. After a few projects, they pivoted to providing remote technical staffing when a friend suggested the model was better suited for scalability and impact. Early operations were highly manual, using off-the-shelf tools like WordPress for the website, and then moving to low-code solutions such as Webflow to keep costs down and operations simple. There was no initial custom software build; tools like Slack, Gmail, Pipedrive, Apollo, Uptics, and Lever were stitched together for managing talent and leads, with an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) used to keep candidate management efficient. The first major working version of their service was reached in less than a year, aided by immediate traction from cold emailing that landed their first large client, Rover.com. The most notable challenges were the newness of the agency model to the founder (who was previously focused on product businesses), operating at a loss in the first one to two years (covered on credit cards), and learning to balance business development with delivery—particularly maintaining enough high-quality tech talent to meet client demand as sales grew.
|
**Cold Email Outreach**
ThirstySprout scaled co...
Cold Email Outreach
ThirstySprout scaled cold outbound emailing from hundreds to thousands of targeted messages a day, reaching out to both startups and enterprises looking for remote technical talent. Early campaigns boasted open rates over 50%, though current larger-scale efforts average open rates in the low 20% range with 2-3% response rates.
Why it worked: This direct approach allowed precise targeting of decision-makers at fast-growing startups, generating high-quality leads even with limited initial resources. Community Building & Engagement
They built and curated their own founder-focused communities (like pitchbase.co and a 6,000+ member Facebook group) and joined strategic industry groups such as Hampton and WeWork Labs. Fostering trust and genuine relationships in these spaces encouraged organic referrals and strong brand credibility within the startup ecosystem.
Why it worked: Engaged communities positioned ThirstySprout as a trusted insider—essential when trust is the main factor driving hiring decisions. LinkedIn Content Marketing (Emerging Channel)
Though still ramping up, they have started prioritizing LinkedIn for original content focused on the nuances of hiring remote technical talent, aiming to reach their core founder audience and establish subject-matter expertise.
Why it worked: LinkedIn is where tech founders and talent acquisition managers spend time, and content-driven engagement bolsters both inbound leads and the company’s reputation with prospective clients and talent.
|
|
|
Restaurants ↔️ Job Seekers
|
$90K
monthly
|
360
days
|
$2.25
per visitor
|
$30K
to start
|
46
out of 100
|
In high school, Luca started earning money by d...
In high school, Luca started earning money by doing door-to-door leafleting. He later worked in various roles in the restaurant industry while studying psychology and human resources. During his thesis, he came up with the idea for Restworld, a platform to match people and companies in the restaurant industry. After conducting extensive research and validation, Luca and his co-founder launched Restworld and have since built a thriving business with over 800 customers and a community of over 72,000 subscribers.
|
Restworld's initial product development focused...
Restworld's initial product development focused on creating an efficient matching platform for restaurants and job seekers, akin to Tinder but for employment purposes. They began with simple tools such as Google Docs, Gmail, Typeform, and basic automations for organizing data, which allowed them to facilitate job matching in the early stages. As they gained insight from their first few customers, they shifted from a potential SaaS model to a Recruiting as a Service (RaaS) approach, recognizing that restaurants needed more hands-on assistance. The platform's complexity grew significantly, involving three front-end platforms and over 70 variables each for workers and restaurants, with just two developers managing the technological advancements. Building the first version involved substantial research, testing, and iteration, and it was more challenging than anticipated due to the numerous feature evaluations and market validations required to find the right path.
|
#### Social Media and PR
Restworld created str...
Restworld created strong brand awareness through social media and public relations. Starting with a strategic focus on building a community, they utilized platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to engage with potential customers in the hospitality sector. Their posts often highlighted success stories, job opportunities, and company milestones, which helped establish trust and interest within their target audience. Additionally, gaining media coverage through newspaper articles enhanced their image and credibility, drawing attention to their services. Why it worked: Social media served as a direct line to reach a broad audience that uses these platforms daily, while PR helped build a public image of trustworthiness and relevance. Both strategies promoted organic sharing and discussion of their services, increasing brand visibility and interest. Direct Sales and NetworkingIn the early stages, Restworld focused heavily on unscalable, direct interaction methods like face-to-face meetings and telephone calls. This personal approach allowed them to grasp the specific needs and pain points of restaurant owners and job seekers. It was through these interactions that Restworld could fine-tune their services and positioning to effectively meet market demands. Why it worked: This method of customer acquisition was successful because it built personal relationships and trust with clients, fostering loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals. Understanding customers' personal experiences also allowed Restworld to tailor their offerings precisely, which was a key differentiator at the time. Content MarketingRestworld capitalized on creating valuable content specific to the restaurant industry and job seekers. The content focused on challenges within the industry and how Restworld's services provide solutions. By addressing real problems experienced by their audience, the content resonated well and was shared organically. Why it worked: Effective content marketing educated potential clients on industry-specific issues while subtly promoting the benefits of Restworld's platform. This type of content validated their expertise and built authority, encouraging engagement and conversion. Paid AdvertisingAs Restworld began scaling, they shifted towards more scalable methods, such as paid ads on Meta (Facebook and Instagram). These ads targeted specific demographics within the hospitality industry, aimed at acquiring workers and customers efficiently through a straightforward funnel: ad > form > call > onboarding. Why it worked: With precise targeting and a well-defined conversion funnel, paid ads allowed Restworld to reach a large number of potential clients quickly. The scalability of paid advertising helped them maintain consistent growth without sacrificing the personal touch they initially built in their reputation.
|
|
|
Business Owners ↔️ Virtual Assistants
|
$10K
monthly
|
60
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$900
to start
|
64
out of 100
|
Neelesh Rangwani, co-founder of Wishup, came up...
Neelesh Rangwani, co-founder of Wishup, came up with the idea for the virtual assistant marketplace while attending IIT Madras in 2015. Initially a chat-based concierge service, Neelesh and his co-founder Vivek Gupta realized the growing demand for assistance from business owners and start-ups. They relaunched as Wishup, offering competent and professional virtual assistants to freelancers and small businesses, and have since experienced exponential growth, with year-on-year revenue growth of 300% and user growth of approximately 200%.
|
The founders initially built Wishup as a servic...
The founders initially built Wishup as a service for Indian businessmen by connecting them with online assistants using manual workflows. In the beginning, there was no centralized tech stack—virtual assistants (VAs) used Excel to create reports, which were then shared directly with clients. Collecting user feedback was managed manually through scheduled meetings set up by assistants. Based on learnings from this process, the team later developed an in-house app to replace Excel, streamlining operations and enabling scalability. The bootstrapped team consisted of four members and six initial VAs; building the MVP to a functioning state took around two years, starting from 2015 and launching the full virtual assistant marketplace by April 2017. Early challenges included the lack of automation, difficulties in managing workflows without centralized software, and establishing trust with both clients and assistants.
|
**Referrals & Word of Mouth**
A significant por...
Referrals & Word of Mouth
A significant portion of Wishup's early growth came from customer recommendations and referrals, which helped them achieve exponential growth soon after launch.
Why it worked: Delivering positive customer experiences with reliable assistants made clients eager to recommend the service within their networks. Paid Social (Facebook Ads)
Co-founder Neelesh leveraged his experience with Facebook ads to connect with business owners, reaching their target market cost-effectively.
Why it worked: Targeted ads enabled Wishup to reach business owners directly and quickly generate leads in the service's early days. Affiliate Programs
Wishup established an affiliate program to incentivize bloggers, publishers, and marketers to promote their services, offering $500 for each signup.
Why it worked: High payouts encouraged partners to actively refer small business owners needing virtual assistants, extending Wishup's reach efficiently.
|
|
|
Digital Fashion Wardrobe ↔️ Buyers
|
$12.5K
monthly
|
30
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$200K
to start
|
59
out of 100
|
Marina Martianova, founder and CEO of Seamm, ca...
Marina Martianova, founder and CEO of Seamm, came up with the idea for her business by combining her passions for fashion and gaming. After founding and growing a successful food-tech startup, Marina saw the opportunity to bridge the gap between the fashion and gaming industries and create a platform that allows users to fully express their identity in virtual worlds. Since launching in December, Seamm has already onboarded six brands and aims to continue innovating in the digital fashion space.
|
Seamm's journey to building its initial product...
Seamm's journey to building its initial product involved merging elements of the gaming and fashion industries into an accessible platform. The team developed a minimum viable product (MVP) within just one month, initially offering functionalities to obtain digital models of fashion items but lacking marketplace features. To test demand, they created a small fashion collection, allowing users to experiment with AR fitting and use an in-app marketplace for purchases, which could then be exported to virtual worlds and games. The platform also supported NFTs, enabling users to transform and resell unique items. Building the product was a collaborative process, involving frequent team discussions and gaming sessions to foster a creative and unified environment. Hiring the right team was crucial, with approximately $600,000 dedicated to salaries to ensure they had employees capable of innovating and taking calculated risks.
|
#### Partnerships with Brands
Seamm's primary ...
Partnerships with BrandsSeamm's primary strategy for growth and customer acquisition is through partnerships with brands. By aligning with brands that offer unique designs and share their values of sustainability, Seamm is able to attract their target audience effectively. The company negotiates with over 60 brands to become a part of their platform, ensuring that these partnerships not only provide Seamm with exposure but also create value for the brands through digital twin offerings. Why it works: Partnering with brands helps Seamm directly reach a customer base that already has an interest in fashion products. This B2B approach not only taps into existing customer networks but also lets brands rejuvenate their business models through digital fashion, thus offering Seamm a steady stream of engaged users. Initially, Seamm experimented with various social media platforms such as Instagram and Discord. However, they later shifted their focus more towards Instagram and Twitter after realizing that a significant portion of their target audience was more active on these platforms. Why it works: By concentrating their social media efforts on platforms where their audience is most active, Seamm maximizes their engagement with potential customers. Instagram and Twitter also offer visual and conversational avenues that align well with their digital fashion products, making their marketing efforts more effective. Experimentation and FeedbackSeamm uses a backend site with non-existent products to test user behavior and preferences. This approach allows them to experiment with different ideas and gather valuable insights without full-scale rollouts. Why it works: This method of testing enables Seamm to refine their product development and marketing strategies based on data-driven insights. By understanding their customers’ preferences and behaviors, they can adapt their offerings to better meet market demands, thus enhancing customer satisfaction and retention. QR Code ActivationsSeamm leverages QR code activations as a novel way to bridge their physical and digital offerings. By scanning a QR code on real-world items, users can unlock digital copies for their wardrobes in virtual worlds. Why it works: This innovative use of technology not only adds a layer of engagement for customers but also serves as a tangible bridge between real-world purchases and digital experiences. It encourages users to interact more frequently and consistently with Seamm’s offering, helping to retain them in the long run.
|
|
|
Employers ↔️ Filipino Professionals
|
$1.5K
monthly
|
50
days
|
—
per visitor
|
$1K
to start
|
84
out of 100
|
Permworks was founded by the co-founder of Goho...
Permworks was founded by the co-founder of Gohock, who hired a virtual assistant from the Philippines named Daina. Recognizing the value of Filipino talent, the founder decided to create Permworks, a jobs board that connects employers with Filipino talent, making it easier for startups to access staff and focus on growth.
|
Building the first version of Permworks involve...
Building the first version of Permworks involved using a no-code platform, Bubble.io, which allowed the founders to rapidly develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). They opted for a pre-built template and customized it to fit their business needs, allowing them to go live within approximately 6-8 weeks. This MVP development phase was more challenging than anticipated, especially when integrating their specific business model with the existing template, which required continuous bug-fixing and functionality enhancements. User feedback was crucial in this phase; for instance, by interacting with employers, they were prompted to add a feature allowing users to shortlist applicants by simply clicking a heart icon, which significantly improved employer satisfaction with the platform.
|
#### Social Media and Online Communities
Permw...
Permworks effectively utilized Facebook groups to reach Filipino job seekers. By posting job ads in specific groups like "Philippines Home-Based Virtual Assistants" and "Digital Marketing Jobs PH," they managed to attract significant attention, sometimes leading to 1,000 new sign-ups overnight. They extended their efforts to other platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn to build their brand presence. Why it worked: Engaging with Facebook groups specifically targeted at Filipino job seekers helped tap into a community where potential candidates were already active. This strategy quickly generated traction and led to a high number of sign-ups, facilitating a large pool of job seekers for employers. Competitor PiggybackingPermworks initially attracted employers by reaching out directly to companies from a competitor's job board. By leveraging a conversion rate of 20-30%, they managed to migrate employers over to their platform, leading to their first paying clients. Why it worked: This approach effectively targeted an existing pool of employers already seeking Filipino talent. By offering competitive pricing and services, Permworks was able to convert potential customers who were seeking similar solutions. Word-of-Mouth and ReferralsWord-of-mouth referrals became a powerful channel for acquiring new customers. As Permworks established strong relationships with clients through exceptional service and support, satisfied employers began recommending the platform to other businesses. Why it worked: Providing top-notch recruitment and compliance services built client trust and satisfaction, prompting employers to spread the word about their positive experiences. This channel organically increased their customer base with minimal additional effort. Online AdvertisingPermworks used online advertising, primarily through LinkedIn, to reach potential customers. By focusing on feed posts that provided educational content about hiring and engaging Filipino talent, they caught the interest of their target audience. Why it worked: LinkedIn served as a strategic platform for reaching businesses and hiring managers interested in hiring remotely, ensuring ads were seen by those who could benefit most from Permworks’ services. The educational approach engaged employers by addressing common hiring concerns.
|
|
|
|
$1.5M
monthly
|
365
days
|
$0.25
per visitor
|
$350K
to start
|
50
out of 100
|
Gergo, the founder of Lensa, came up with the i...
Gergo, the founder of Lensa, came up with the idea for his business after experiencing the broken hiring process firsthand. Through his previous successes in launching and selling various startups, he recognized the need for a technological solution to the career marketplace crisis. With a mission to help job seekers find their perfect career match using advanced AI technology, Lensa has seen impressive growth, with a 12% increase in revenue from the previous year and reaching a total of $22 million in revenue and 6 million new subscribers in 2022.
|
The founders of Lensa drew on prior experience ...
The founders of Lensa drew on prior experience with job search platforms to guide the initial product build, assembling a small team of four developers alongside key roles in finance and user relations. They used a robust and modern tech stack: React for the frontend, Node.js for the backend, and MongoDB for the database, ensuring scalability from the outset. Development began with ideation and focus group sessions, incorporating feedback early and often to validate concepts and refine usability. Tools like Git, GitHub, Jira, Docker, and Jenkins facilitated version control, project management, and deployment. The process from the initial design phase to the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) took about four months, with iterative prototyping and continuous user testing. A major challenge was accurately identifying user needs and aligning AI-powered matching features to address real pain points—feedback from targeted focus groups was key to overcoming this and resulted in significant pivots to the UI and UX design along the way.
|
**Google Ads (PPC)**
Lensa used Google Ads camp...
Google Ads (PPC)
Lensa used Google Ads campaigns after launch, leveraging paid search to rapidly increase platform visibility and attract job seekers and employers.
Why it worked: Targeted ads efficiently drove qualified, high-intent users to the site, rapidly generating initial traction needed to reach break-even within seven months. SEO & Link-Building
They invested early in building an in-house SEO team that prioritized relationship-based link-building, content creation, and outreach to industry professionals for blog participation.
Why it worked: Growing high-quality backlinks and publishing industry-relevant content drove dependable organic traffic, supporting sustained growth at lower acquisition costs. Social Media (TikTok Focus)
Noting strong user growth potentials, they put extra emphasis on TikTok marketing, creating targeted content and ad campaigns tailored to the platform's demographic.
Why it worked: Prioritizing a fast-growing channel reached younger job seekers efficiently and expanded Lensa’s market beyond traditional recruiting sources. Email Marketing
Using tools like Mailchimp, Lensa personalized communications and job alerts to a growing subscriber base, which exceeded 6 million.
Why it worked: Personalized engagement and timely job notifications kept users returning and improved retention in a competitive marketplace.
|
|
|
Outdoor Sports Enthusiasts ↔️ Sports Guides
|
$100K
monthly
|
—
days
|
—
per visitor
|
—
to start
|
54
out of 100
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Jonathan Newar, the Co-Founder and CEO of Capta...
Jonathan Newar, the Co-Founder and CEO of Captain Experiences, came up with the idea for the business while trying to book a fishing trip in Houston, TX. Frustrated by the lack of an easy, user-friendly platform for booking fishing charters, he decided to create Captain Experiences. Since its launch in March 2020, Captain has become the largest platform for booking fishing guides in the US, with over 1,200 guides partnered, 47,000 hours booked, and an average review score of 4.9/5 stars.
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The founders created the first version of Capta...
The founders created the first version of Captain Experiences as a custom-built website focused on enabling users to search and filter fishing trips across various parameters such as location, price, target species, and amenities. The initial product was dense and overloaded with features, as the team included everything they thought users might need—leading to a cumbersome user experience. The platform's UI/UX was improved iteratively through interviews with early users (adventurers), A/B testing, and analytics-driven decision making to refine and simplify features. Core development involved heavy use of analytics tools like Google Analytics and GlassBox, helping identify what users valued most. The process spanned several months from ideation to a functional, user-ready site, with a key challenge being the removal of less useful features to streamline booking and manage guide calendars efficiently.
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**SEO**
Captain Experiences focused on attracti...
SEO
Captain Experiences focused on attracting high-intent users by targeting fishing charter keywords and publishing location-specific trip content. SEO has remained a major driver after launch, consistently bringing in adventurers searching for guides.
Why it worked: Targeting transactional search queries allowed the platform to capture users ready to book, fueling organic growth cost-effectively. Social Media & Content Marketing
They invested in sharing engaging trip stories and updates across social platforms and through a weekly newsletter, which personalized the brand and drove repeat visits.
Why it worked: Regular, relevant content built trust and community engagement, encouraging both new and repeat bookings. Referral & Direct Traffic
Satisfied customers referred friends, and increased brand recognition led to a steady rise in direct visits over time.
Why it worked: Personal referrals and strong brand loyalty lowered acquisition costs and drove high-converting traffic as awareness grew.
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Individuals ↔️ Financial Advisors
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$30K
monthly
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180
days
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$0.75
per visitor
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$100K
to start
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76
out of 100
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Brian Thorp founded Wealthtender in 2019 to pro...
Brian Thorp founded Wealthtender in 2019 to provide inclusive financial advice and resources for people of all income levels. With over 40,000 monthly visitors, Wealthtender generates $8,000 in revenue each month from financial professionals who subscribe to their digital marketing benefits. Thorp identified a gap in the market for a financial advisor review platform and capitalized on new SEC regulations to launch Wealthtender's SEC-compliant online review platform, further expanding their offerings and establishing their authority in the industry.
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Wealthtender's founders began by ideating and p...
Wealthtender's founders began by ideating and planning the website while still employed, dedicating nights and weekends to the groundwork ahead of a 2019 launch. They consulted a developer friend who recommended building the platform on WordPress, chosen for its flexibility and scalability. For hosting, they used WPEngine, and later integrated the Circle.so private community platform, alongside tools like HubSpot for CRM and Zapier for workflow automation. The initial product was content-focused, with a team of freelance writers creating articles on personal finance, and a prototype directory for blogs wireframed and developed in parallel. The site was iteratively improved through feedback from early blog and podcast partners; a brief, ineffective stint with offshore web developers highlighted the difficulty of remote collaboration at this stage. The first working version took several months of part-time development, launching in late 2019, with ongoing refinements based on user and creator feedback.
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**SEO**
Wealthtender published a wide range o...
SEO
Wealthtender published a wide range of personal finance articles and built directory pages targeting high-intent keywords such as “hourly financial advisor,” “flat fee financial advisor,” and other long-tail advisor discovery terms. By early 2023, this approach helped the site reach over 30,000 monthly visitors and attain first-page Google rankings for competitive queries.
Why it worked: Focused, niche content captured relevant organic search traffic, enabling Wealthtender to compete effectively against much larger financial sites and drive high-quality leads. Word-of-Mouth and Referrals
Revenue and customer count grew substantially from existing financial professionals recommending the platform to their peers, especially after they had a positive onboarding and service experience. This channel helped Wealthtender surpass 100 paid advisor clients and reinforced trust in a network-driven industry.
Why it worked: Trust is paramount in financial services; referrals among professionals provided credibility and accelerated adoption. Community & Partnerships
Wealthtender partnered with financial blog and podcast communities like FinCon and professional associations such as AFCPE to invite content creators and acquire early clients. Participation in collaborative groups like Money Mix Insiders also boosted their SEO through content syndication and widened brand exposure via respected media channels.
Why it worked: Strategic collaborations expanded reach, gave access to highly targeted audiences, and improved authority in both content and professional networks.
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Sneaker Buyers ↔️ Sneaker Sellers
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$1K
monthly
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337
days
|
—
per visitor
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$5K
to start
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71
out of 100
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Mikey Young, a sneaker enthusiast and finance s...
Mikey Young, a sneaker enthusiast and finance senior at Georgetown, realized during the pandemic that existing sneaker resale platforms were laden with fees and inaccessibility. Inspired by Phil Knight's "Shoe Dog," he launched Estuary, a fee-free resale platform, amassing $200k in inventory and 7 sellers by their February soft launch.
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Estuary's initial product was developed by the ...
Estuary's initial product was developed by the founder and a team of co-founders, with the earliest phase consisting mainly of concept sketches, surveys of about 100 sneaker enthusiasts, and iterative idea development using an idea book. The technical implementation for the first working version relied on the Wix website builder to create both the launch page and initial operational marketplace, which allowed features and pages to be quickly assembled without custom coding. Payment processing was handled through Stripe, and fulfillment partnered out to Shipstation; core operations and planning were managed in Notion and Google Drive. The MVP (minimum viable product) was built after several months of market research and was put together rapidly after a university entrepreneurship class brought the founding team together, with significant prototyping and trial/error during coursework. One clear challenge was a last-minute pivot from an elaborately planned approach to a more pragmatic build using Wix and student resources. The team moved from concept to a working soft-launched platform in under six months, aided by academic support and reimbursement for initial costs.
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**Instagram**
Estuary's largest traffic and cus...
Instagram
Estuary's largest traffic and customer acquisition channel has been Instagram, leveraging their network by having fraternity chapters and sellers repost content, which quickly built up the follower base to 640 and drove the majority of website visits according to Wix analytics.
Why it worked: This approach tapped directly into communities with existing sneaker interest and strong peer-to-peer trust, resulting in rapid, organic reach and engagement. Word-of-Mouth & Network Effects
The founders used their geographically distributed team and personal/professional networks to amplify awareness, asking friends, family, and sellers to engage with and share Estuary's stories, leading to a wider national audience and successful early adoption.
Why it worked: Leveraging personal credibility increased trust in the new marketplace and drove authentic, referral-based growth with little upfront spend. Mailchimp Email Marketing
Every buyer is automatically subscribed to Estuary's Mailchimp newsletter after a purchase, allowing for direct, ongoing customer engagement and product updates, resulting in a base of 180 newsletter subscribers post-launch.
Why it worked: Email allowed for effective, low-cost retention and repeated engagement with recent customers, helping to keep the brand top-of-mind and increasing repeat purchase potential.
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