DistributionEmerging Pattern

Build side projects that create distribution networks for your eventual real business

Q: How many founders have validated "build side projects that create distribution networks for your eventual real business"?

1 founder has proven this pattern works. Examples include Karl Hughes (Draft.dev).

Side projects that build audiences in your target market create warm distribution channels. Even if the side project itself fails commercially, the network it generates can fuel future ventures that serve the same audience.

When to use

When building side projects, choose ones that put you in contact with your future target customers even if the project itself has unclear monetization

Don't do this

Building side projects for pure technical interest without considering whether the audience overlaps with potential future business opportunities

1 Founder Who Did This

Draft.devby Karl Hughes

CFP Land side project built connections to hundreds of DevRel professionals over 2-3 years, even though CFP Land only generated a couple hundred dollars MRR before COVID killed it

Result:CFP Land's DevRel network became Draft.dev's initial distribution channel, generating first 5-10 customers through direct outreach to existing contacts

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