061: A No-Code Tool Directory Making $10k/Month

—Welcome to Startup Gems, where we find undiscovered startup growth hacks, stories and case studies from every random nook and cranny of the internet.—

—Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, an aspiring startup expert, or simply someone seeking inspiration, Startup Gems is your source for the stories that ignite the flames of innovation.—

—I’m your host, Chris Koerner, and today, we're diving into the inspiring journey of NoCodeDevs and its founder, Art. We'll explore how Art transformed his frustration into a thriving online platform, discovering the key principles that propelled NoCodeDevs to success. We'll dissect their commitment to value-driven content creation, the art of organic community building, and the power of continuous adaptation and learning. So, whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, buckle up as we unravel the secrets behind NoCodeDevs' achievements, offering valuable insights that you can apply to your own ventures.—

—Today, I want to share an inspiring story about Art, the founder and CEO of NoCodeDevs, an online directory and education resource for all things no-code. Art, a Pittsburgh native and a project manager in the Oil and Gas industry, found himself frustrated by his inability to streamline workflows due to his lack of technical skills. This frustration led him to teach himself how to build applications and automations using "no-code" tools.—

—In the beginning, NoCodeDevs started as a small project. Art built the initial MVP on Webflow and MightyNetworks, sending out a free newsletter to a handful of subscribers. Over time, he expanded the platform, adding features like a community, a directory with over 500+ no-code tools, challenges, bootcamps, tutorials, templates, and even a Chrome extension to watch tutorials. NoCodeDevs continued to grow, with the addition of a YouTube channel, product boosts, and an upvoting function in the directory.—

—But how did Art get his first customers? Well, it happened organically through Twitter. He shared valuable content on building apps, websites, and automations, catching the attention of various software as a service companies for co-marketing initiatives. NoCodeDevs never relied on ads or paid promotions. Instead, they focused on creating high-quality educational content on YouTube and other social media channels. They also invested in SEO blog content, publishing about 100 articles to boost their organic search reach.—

—So, how does NoCodeDevs make money? They operate as a media business, generating revenue primarily from ads and partnerships. While they offer courses and paid services, these contribute only a small portion to their overall revenue. Currently, NoCodeDevs is making well over 10 grand monthly, with plans to expand their course offerings and introduce new services in twenty twenty four.—

—To keep the business running smoothly, Art handles various tasks, from bookkeeping and payroll to reviewing contracts. Their tech stack includes tools like Wix Studio for the front-end, Zapier and Make for automations, Descript for video editing, and Monday for project management, among others.—

—Before we wrap up, Art shares some valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: never quit. He emphasizes the importance of pivoting when necessary but urged others to persevere, reminding us all that it's usually darkest before dawn.—

—And there you have it, folks - the story of Art and NoCodeDevs, a testament to the power of determination and continuous learning in the world of entrepreneurship. —

—Let’s now delve into the principles that made NoCodeDevs a thriving success story. We'll dissect these principles and see how you can apply them to your own business ventures.—

—Principle 1: Value-Driven Content Creation—

—One of the key factors behind NoCodeDevs' success was their dedication to providing high-value content. Whether it was tutorials, blog posts, or social media threads, Art consistently delivered valuable information to his audience. This created a loyal following and attracted organic customers.—

—Consider your target audience's pain points and interests. Create content that addresses their needs and challenges. Whether it's blog posts, videos, or social media updates, ensure your content provides real value. Consistency is key - establish a content schedule and stick to it. Engage with your audience to understand their feedback, allowing you to refine your content strategy further.—

—Principle 2: Organic Community Building—

—NoCodeDevs' initial customers came organically via Twitter. By sharing expertise and knowledge, Art built a community around his passion for no-code tools. This engaged community not only supported the business but also served as a valuable source of feedback and ideas.—


—Identify platforms where your target audience hangs out. Engage with them genuinely - answer questions, participate in discussions, and share your expertise. Create a community around your niche, whether it's a forum, social media group, or a Slack channel. Encourage members to share their experiences and insights. Building a community takes time, so be patient and invest in authentic connections.—

—Principle 3: Continuous Adaptation and Learning—

—NoCodeDevs evolved over time, adding new features and services based on user needs. Art was not afraid to pivot, adapting the business to changing market demands. This flexibility ensured NoCodeDevs stayed relevant and appealing to its audience.—

—Stay attuned to industry trends and customer feedback. Regularly assess your products or services and be open to change. Conduct surveys, gather feedback, and analyze market trends. Don't be afraid to pivot if you notice a shift in customer preferences or market demands. Adaptability is a powerful asset in the business world.—

—And there you have it, folks! The success of NoCodeDevs can be attributed to their commitment to delivering value, building an organic community, and continuously adapting to market needs. By incorporating these principles into your own business endeavors, you too can pave the way for success. —



—Thank you for being part of today's adventure through the world of startups and innovation. Did this episode ignite any fresh perspectives or ideas? Share your reflections and favorite takeaways in a review wherever you’re listening now. Remember to stay curious, continue to forge your own path, and subscribe and follow Startup Gems to be the first to access stories that will fan the flames of your entrepreneurial passion.