How to Start a Small Business without a Technical Background

If you're reading this, chances are, you want some of that million-dollar acquisition that tech start-ups are enjoying. The problem is, you don't know a single thing about programming. HTML and CSS codes are enough to make you weep and chuck your keyboard at an open window. Fortunately, it is possible to start a business even if you don't have an ounce of technical training.

Learn when to shift gears.

Entrepreneurs are independent self-starters by nature, so you may find it challenging to stand idly by as the experts do their job. You have to find the balance between steering the business in the right direction and letting go of the reigns from time to time. The key here is delegating the right tasks to the right people. Hold on to more than 50 per cent of the businesses to avoid a conflict with your co-founder.

Compensate for what you lack.

Surround yourself with people who have expertise in areas that you don't know. Provide a productive and conducive work environment to your staff. Give your perspective as a non-technical user, considering the mindset of an average customer. Learn the fundamentals of the technology involved. Take care of the business side, while you let the nerd herd do their job.

Bare bones.

Start with the basic essentials - accountant, one or two sales persons, a general marketer, and your product development team. Don't get caught up with start-ups offering free beers and food in preppy offices.

Offshore staffing

IT talent is hard to come by, especially when fancy start-ups and tech giants are offering all kinds of perks to lure them. Fortunately with today's technology, you can employ skilled offshore staff to augment your internal workforce. For example, you can hire an offshore web developer to build a coming soon page, while your mobile app developer builds the next addictive game. At the same time, your virtual assistant helps you manage your schedule.

Look at the Clouds.

Look into affordable Cloud tools and services for your IT needs. However, keep in mind that a Cloud contract is different. People often assume that it's a plug-and-play type of deal where the computer does everything. That’s not always the case.


Steve Jobs sold circuit boards with Steve Wozniak even though he had little technical knowledge. This business eventually became Apple Inc. A successful business is not just about having perfect geniuses in line, but a group of talented diverse individuals complementing each other.