Building a product doesn’t require a big budget, just focus on what matters. A Minimum Viable Product (MVP) lets startups test ideas quickly by solving one core problem. Here’s how to create one without overspending.

1. Start with the Problem

Before diving into development, talk to potential users. Use surveys or short interviews to confirm the problem exists. For example, if you’re building a ride-sharing app, ask: Do people struggle to find affordable local rides? Skip assumptions; let data guide you.

2. Strip Features to the Basics

Identify the single feature that solves the problem. A food delivery app needs order tracking, not recipe suggestions. Use a prioritization method like MoSCoW (Must-have, Should-have, Could-have, Won’t-have) to avoid scope creep.

3. Build Fast, Spend Less

Create a prototype using free tools like Figma or Canva for design mockups, build apps with lightweight frameworks or starter templates to save time, and a landing page to gauge demand. Need developers? Hire freelancers on Upwork or Fiverr, or collaborate with students from coding schools.

4. Test, Learn, Repeat

Share the MVP with 10–50 users. Track behavior (e.g., sign-ups, usage time) and ask for feedback. If users ignore a feature, remove it. If they struggle, simplify the design.

By focusing on core needs and using free tools, startups can test ideas in weeks, not months. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s learning what works.