How can I learn how to successfully build an online platform/ecosystem for a niche industry?

There is so much to unpack in your question. To best answer, I would need to understand much more about your product, vision, customer base, team, and what you mean by "strategic help."

You obviously have some questions in mind that need answering, without more details, I cannot answer those questions specifically.

I'd be happy to book a call with you to discuss further.

I have a few posts on my website that may help, again, without knowing what you're looking for, it is hard to answer you directly. =)

1. https://www.shaunnestor.com/how-to-find-clients-as-a-freelancer/ (Replace "Freelancer" with whatever title you give your platform)

2. https://www.shaunnestor.com/how-to-build-an-online-business-with-little-to-no-experience/

I've found that those two articles generally give people the next steps they are looking for.

Again, feel free to book a call with me, if you'd like to discuss specifics.

All the best,
-Shaun

The key strategy for what you are trying to do is that:

1. You need to attract a critical mass of community members of high quality.

2. You need to be strict about moderating the community, to keep it from deteriorating into a Facebook type environment. This includes responding to "experts" on your forums who give bad advice.

If you can build a hub which attracts top-notch people in that niche, who interact and create a high level of value, even when you aren't on, then you will have success.

Also, don't focus on trying to monetize it. First, build a quality, critical mass of regular users. Then, as you discuss things, you can find demand for products/services that you can offer gently, without forcing it on them.

You should need digital marketing experts to market your hub. You shouod search for digital marketing tools that drive traffic to hub. Use facebook and linkedin marketing extensively. Also use youtube explainer video to explain to new people about the benefit of your hub. These are the steps you can take to successfully build a hub.

For more detail advice and help from me just hire me. It is cheap.