METHODOLOGY · UPDATED MARCH 2026
Where the numbers come from.
Every metric passes three validation layers. No estimates without a source.
1. Founder case studies
Real operators share revenue milestones, expenses, and lessons. Each idea page names the founder and specific numbers.
2. Supplier pricing
Equipment, licensing, insurance, and SaaS costs from current vendor catalogs and state filing fees — refreshed quarterly.
3. Industry benchmarks
Margins, conversion, and CAC cross-checked against IBISWorld, Statista, and trade reports per vertical.
What we report
- Startup range: lean minimum + recommended budget across 6 cost categories
- Net margins (after expenses), not gross revenue
- Monthly revenue min/max, avg transaction value, days to first dollar
Found an outdated figure? Tell us — we correct publicly.