5
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merge Club | https://merge.club/guide | Microgrant Platform | Provides a database of no-strings-attached microgrant programs for side projects |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Financial barriers blocking progress on side projects (e.g., $100, $500, $1k gaps)
- Difficulty accessing funding for non-commercial technical projects
Problems to Solve:
- Securing small-scale funding to unlock project development
- Finding resources for hardware/robotics projects without business requirements
Potential Solutions:
- Microgrant programs specifically for side projects
- Platforms aggregating no-strings-attached funding opportunities
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Creating niche resource databases targeting specific user needs (side project builders)
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Solving acute pain points (funding gaps) to attract users
- Community sharing in relevant forums (e.g., r/SideProject)
Monetization & Product:
- Free resource aggregation as lead generation
- Potential premium features for grant applicants
User Engagement:
- Providing high-value free resources to build trust
- Targeting communities with aligned interests (technical builders)