Let’s talk about startup ideas. You know, those late-night “Eureka!” moments that make you jump out of bed, grab your laptop, and start typing furiously. The ones that feel so brilliant, so obvious, that you’re convinced you’re about to become the next Elon Musk. But here’s the thing: not every great idea is a great business idea. And figuring out which ones will actually make money? That’s the hard part.
I’ve been there. I’ve had ideas that I thought were going to change the world—only to realize they were better suited for a brainstorming session than a business plan. But along the way, I’ve learned a few things. I’ve learned to spot the signs that an idea has real potential. And today, I’m sharing those signs with you.
Think of this as your friendly, no-BS guide to figuring out if your startup idea is worth pursuing. Because let’s be real: life’s too short to waste time on ideas that won’t pay the bills.
1. You’ve Identified a Real Problem
The best startups solve real problems. Not imaginary ones, not “nice-to-have” ones, but problems that people actually care about.
Example: Airbnb solved the problem of expensive hotels and lack of authentic travel experiences. If your idea doesn’t solve a problem, it’s probably not going to make money.
2. People Are Willing to Pay for It
It’s one thing to have a great idea. It’s another thing to have an idea people are willing to open their wallets for.
Example: If you’re creating a subscription box for cat lovers, make sure cat lovers are actually willing to pay for it. (Spoiler: they are.)
3. You Have a Clear Target Audience
A startup that tries to appeal to everyone usually ends up appealing to no one. The more specific your target audience, the better.
Example: Instead of targeting “people who like fitness,” target “busy moms who want quick, effective home workouts.”
4. You’ve Done Your Research
You’ve looked at the market, analyzed the competition, and figured out where your idea fits in. You’re not just guessing—you’ve got data to back it up.
Example: If you’re launching a new app, you know how many people are searching for similar apps, what they’re willing to pay, and what’s missing from the current offerings.
5. You’ve Tested the Idea
You’ve talked to potential customers, run surveys, or even created a prototype to see if people are interested.
Example: Before launching their first product, the founders of Warby Parker tested their idea by selling glasses out of a dorm room. It worked.
6. You Have a Unique Angle
Your idea isn’t just a copy of something that already exists. It has a unique twist that sets it apart.
Example: Dollar Shave Club didn’t invent razors, but they revolutionized the way they’re sold.
7. You’re Passionate About It
Starting a business is hard. If you’re not passionate about your idea, you’re going to burn out fast.
Example: If you love baking and want to start a bakery, your passion will keep you going when things get tough.
8. You Have a Plan for Scaling
Your idea isn’t just a one-time thing. It has the potential to grow and scale over time.
Example: If you’re starting a tutoring service, think about how you can expand to offer online courses or hire more tutors.
9. You’ve Thought About Revenue Streams
You’re not just relying on one way to make money. You’ve thought about multiple revenue streams, like subscriptions, ads, or affiliate sales.
Example: A blog might make money through ads, sponsored posts, and affiliate links.
10. You Have a Strong Brand
Your idea has a clear, compelling brand that resonates with your target audience.
Example: Glossier’s brand is all about natural beauty and inclusivity, and it’s a huge part of their success.
11. You’ve Considered the Costs
You know how much it’s going to cost to get your idea off the ground, and you’ve got a plan for covering those costs.
Example: If you’re launching a product, you’ve factored in manufacturing, shipping, and marketing costs. {5}
12. You Have a Marketing Plan
You’re not just hoping people will find your product. You’ve got a solid plan for getting the word out.
Example: If you’re launching a new app, you’ve thought about how you’ll use social media, influencers, and PR to drive downloads.
13. You’re Prepared to Pivot
You know that your idea might need to change as you learn more about your market. You’re flexible and open to feedback.
Example: Slack started as a gaming company before pivoting to become a messaging platform.
14. You Have a Strong Team
You’re not trying to do it all alone. You’ve got a team of people who complement your skills and share your vision.
Example: If you’re a tech whiz, you’ve got a co-founder who’s great at sales and marketing.
15. You’ve Got Early Traction
Even before you officially launch, you’ve got people interested in your idea. Maybe you’ve got a waiting list, pre-orders, or a growing email list.
Example: If you’re launching a new product, you’ve already got people signing up to be notified when it’s available.
16. You Believe in It
At the end of the day, the most important sign is that you believe in your idea. You’re willing to put in the work, take the risks, and see it through.
Example: If you’re starting a business, you’ve got to believe in it—even when everyone else thinks you’re crazy.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Gut (But Do Your Homework)
Here’s the thing: no one can guarantee that your startup idea will make money. But if you’ve got these 16 signs going for you, you’re off to a pretty good start.
So, take a deep breath, trust your gut, and do your homework. And remember, even if your idea doesn’t work out, it’s not the end of the world. Every failure is a lesson, and every lesson brings you one step closer to success.
Now go out there and chase your dream. You’ve got this. 🚀