I have an idea and I am looking to take it to the next step by developing a MVP. What do you recommend I do? Hire a freelance web developer, find a co-founder, find a mentor?
Oh I love this question. First of all—if you’re 16 and already thinking like an entrepreneur, you’re already ahead of the game. My biggest piece of advice? Start messy, start small, but start and then KEEP GOING. Consistency. You don’t need everything perfect to move forward. Just focus on solving one clear problem for a specific type of person, and build from there.
Talk to real people. Ask questions. See what they struggle with, and test your idea around that. You don’t need a full business plan—you need proof that someone wants what you’re offering. Explore through that.... find what you LOVE.
Also: use your age as an advantage. You’re in a powerful position to get mentorship, support, and attention just because you’re young and bold enough to go for it. People love to help passionate young founders—so reach out! Leverage your content, DM founders, ask questions, apply for free incubators or startup programs (there are so many).
And please, have fun with it. It’s okay to pivot, to make mistakes, and to not know everything right away. Entrepreneurship is the biggest self-growth journey you’ll ever go on. Stay curious, stay kind to yourself, and no matter what, keep going.
You got this. 💻✨