In this episode, we explore 8 standout startup ideas from Dani Grant’s list of 139. I’ll break down why each idea has potential or pitfalls and share the frameworks and strategies I’d use to grow these businesses.
Here are the most interesting ones (with my takes):
1) Product Spec Doc SaaS
• Google Docs for PMs
• Pricing Potential: $20/mo
• Partner with PM influencers (e.g. Lenny Rachitsky )
• Build MVP, then get creator buy-in
• Solid idea, but needs influencer partner to succeed.
2) Developer Portfolio Site Builder
• Like Format but for devs
• $15/mo avg per user, low churn
• Start by designing for influencer devs
• Build MVP after refining the concept
• Great cash flow biz. Niche website builders still work in 2024!
3) Blog + Newsletter in a Box
• Set up blogs like Fred Wilson’s AVC
• Use existing tools (Substack, WordPress)
• One-time fee, cold outreach model
• Good side hustle. Keep it simple, don't try to be Substack 2.0.
4) JSFiddle Meets Twitter
• Social code sharing + memes
• Devs love to remix and share
• Build on existing dev culture
• Compelling idea. Devs crave better social tools.
5) Shopify for X
• No-code marketplace builder
• No-code messaging app creator
• No-code Instagram clone maker
• HUGE potential. The unbundling of Shopify is coming!
6) HQ Trivia for Dating
• Live, gameshow-style dating app
• Start in NYC or LA
• Make it feel like reality TV
• Love this. HQ format will make a comeback in new niches.
Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)
Get access: http://gregisenberg.com/30startupideas
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Links Mentioned:
Dani’s startup ideas: https://thedani.notion.site/Project-Ideas-b598df2c46ac4969af1ac28553d82411
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
02:18 Startup Idea 1: Product Spec Doc SaaS
04:17 Startup Idea 2: Developer Portfolio Site Builder
08:32 Startup Idea 3: Blog + Newsletter in a Box
11:16 Startup Idea 4: Virtual Workspaces
12:42 Startup Idea 5: Turntable FM 2.0
13:44 Startup Idea 6: JSFiddle Meets Twitter
14:57 Startup Idea 7: Shopify for X
16:17 Startup Idea 8: HQ Trivia for Dating
The Startup Ideas Podcast