Starting an API-First Company

Starting an API-first company involves unique challenges and opportunities compared to traditional business models, particularly as it targets a developer audience rather than typical B2B or B2C customers. Key strategies include focusing on content and inbound marketing to engage developers, as traditional sales tactics may not be effective, and ensuring a seamless, self-service adoption process for developers to trial the product. Founders must embrace a broader business skill set, including sales and customer discovery, to understand diverse customer needs and refine their offerings. Initial funding can often be secured through angel investors, who are more approachable through informal meetings, before advancing to venture capital. Additionally, creating a clear product vision and iterating on a minimal viable product can help maintain focus and ensure alignment with business goals, while being open to collaboration rather than overly secretive about competition can foster growth and innovation in the API ecosystem.