Ask HN: Looking to Set Up a Digital Agency (Python/Finance/Data Science) • Hacker News Board

Post by mn99 » Mon, Nov 09, 2020, 11:12 AM UTC

I am thinking of setting up a digital agency, probably focused on python development with a specialisation in finance and data science. I'm wondering if anyone has ideas on how to market such a service in the early days and attract the first clients.

A bit of background:

- I have a finance background with 15+ years working in the financial services industry - I subsequently co-ran a consultancy where we did a lot of development work, amongst other things, mostly finance/data heavy stuff in python (development work was for internal projects though or as part of bigger non-dev projects, so existing client contacts wouldn't help) - I've also been developing web apps for > 10 years, various technologies incl. RoR, JS, React, SQL, etc, so generally have quite a technical background

I think to start with it makes sense to focus on a niche (hence python, finance, data science) rather than offering full stack development.

I think I have the right background (finance & dev work) but no existing client relationships. I'm trying to avoid platforms (Upwork, etc) and generally prefer the idea of setting up an agency rather than freelancing work (for various reasons, incl. better rates etc, being able to take on larger projects, more professional appearance in front of potential clients, quite enjoyed running a consultancy previously, etc).

If anyone has ideas on how to get a venture like this started, I'd be really keen on having a chat (contact details are in my profile). And of course if anyone would be interested in teaming up let's also have a chat!

Thanks Markus

Post by brudgers » Mon, Nov 09, 2020, 3:25 PM UTC

I'm wondering if anyone has ideas on how to market such a service in the early days and attract the first clients.

Stop wasting time on HN and start contacting potential clients personally and directly.

I think I have the right background (finance & dev work) but no existing client relationships.

That's not the right background. Relationships are number one. Skill, knowledge, and ability are nice to have but can be outsourced. Indeed, they probably will need to be from time to time because a consultant's job is to solve the client's problems. It is not to use their skills.

Overall, it is best to assume that the market you want to enter is adequately served already (that's what the theory of free-markets predicts at least).

I think to start with it makes sense to focus on a niche (hence python, finance, data science) rather than offering full stack development.

This is irrational. You have no clients. The bigger the market the more likely you will find clients because there are more potential clients and they are easier to identify. Boutique firms serving niches thrive because they find the niche organically. They find the niche because their clients lead them to it.

Good luck.