Startup Idea Framework
Here's the framework I use when I'm picking a startup idea - distilled from failed SaaS attempts, BIP experiments, and the scrapbook I keep in public. The full visual deck is linked at the bottom.
1. Start with founder-market fit
Pick a persona or niche where you have an unfair advantage. Not "everyone." A lane where your background, network, and scars make GTM easier. Examples I've used for myself: no-code makers, early-stage founders, Twitter power users, immigrants on visas, new dads in tech.
2. Point at a hot market (10-year trend)
Ideas ride waves. Favor markets that are still expanding - builder/no-code tooling, virtual communities, modern edtech, creator economy - especially if you already have a foot in the door.
3. Choose one of three idea paths
- Own a new subcategory - X market is broken; Y is the novel fix. Higher risk, expands the pie. (Think Clubhouse for drop-in audio, Maven for cohort courses.)
- Serve an underserved niche inside an existing category - same category, sharper ICP. (ConvertKit for bloggers building online businesses.)
- 10x a fragmented, low-NPS market - customers already pay; the tools just suck. (Zillow for real estate search, Square for restaurant PoS.)
4. Run the must-have filters
Before you commit months:
- Clearly validated demand (people already have a habit / budget for something like this)
- Something you'd actually use and pay for yourself
- Recurring revenue from day one when possible
- Exit-friendly shape (SaaS or marketplace a buyer would recognize)
If an idea fails two or more of those, park it. Curiosity is free; opportunity cost isn't.
Full slide deck (visual version of this framework):
Open the Startup Idea Framework on Pitch →