How to build an AI startup in 3 hours
The people who build fast will win. AI makes the cost of iteration almost zero.
I am somewhat skeptical about what we can build with AI now. Can anything with depth and longevity result? I’m not sure. That said, I am fascinated by the technology and impressed by how fast it's improving. Recently, I’ve been exploring AI-powered startup ideas shared by Greg Isenberg. This post is inspired by his recent appearance on the My First Million podcast. In it, he shared a six-step process for building an AI-powered startup in just three hours.
🧠 Step 1: Find a product idea
One well-timed idea can flip your life trajectory. - Greg Isenberg
Greg begins by identifying a product idea. He utilises tools like IdeaBrowser to explore current trends and discover unmet needs within online communities. By analysing discussions on platforms like Reddit and Discord, he pinpoints areas where people are already seeking solutions. This approach helps ensure that the product addresses a real demand, increasing the likelihood of success.
✍️ Step 2: Sketch the product
The sketching economy is the real AI revolution. - Greg Isenberg
The next step is to visualise the product. Using tools like TLDraw, Greg creates simple wireframes to map out the user experience. This visual representation helps in understanding the product's functionality and flow, serving as a foundation for development.
🧪 Step 3: Scope the MVP
Don't overthink startups. Find content gaps, fill the gap, listen to what people want, build an MVP, iterate based on how they like it. - Greg Isenberg
Define a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Greg employs AI tools such as Manus to outline the core features necessary for the MVP. This step involves determining what functionalities are essential to meet user needs without overcomplicating the initial build. By focusing on the MVP, resources are used efficiently and the product can reach the market faster.
👨💻 Step 4: Build the MVP
You use social to get free distribution, you ask your community what to build, you use AI to build your prototype with one killer feature. - Greg Isenberg
With the MVP scoped, the next phase is prototyping. Greg leverages AI coding assistants like Cursor and backend platforms such as Supabase to rapidly develop a working prototype. This approach allows for quick iterations and testing, ensuring that the product aligns with user expectations.
📣 Step 5: Market the product
First-time founders think product, second-time founders think distribution. - Greg Isenberg
Marketing is integral to a startup's success. Greg adopts a vibe marketing strategy, focusing on creating a brand that resonates with the target audience. He uses tools like The Vibe Marketer to craft compelling narratives and Wispr Flow for content distribution. This approach emphasises authenticity and community engagement over traditional advertising methods.
🤖 Step 6: Automate with AI Agents
We're headed to a world where AI agents replace entire departments. - Greg Isenberg
Finally, Greg integrates AI agents to automate various aspects of the business. Tools like Lindy and Windsurf are employed to handle customer support, scheduling and data analysis. By automating these functions, the startup can operate more efficiently and scale effectively.
To conclude the six-step AI-powered startup process, Greg Isenberg said: This is your cheat code to skipping the BS and building faster than ever.
➕ Other resources
How to Build a $1m+ Startup using AI talk by Greg Isenberg
Ten Tips to Write Prompts that Make Chatbots Shine post by Phil Martin
How to Design Effective AI Agents post by Phil Martin
Greg Isenberg suggests: Everyone should start a business because AI agents make it possible to move like a team of ten.
As Mrs Doyle in Father Ted would say, Go on, Go on, Go on.
Have fun.
Phil…
