I often receive emails or view posts of the flavor, “I have an idea, I don’t know how to code, now what?” This is my response for those who are curious about starting an web-based or software startup. (in no particular order)
Start Building
Learn to code — Newbie Ruby Resources
Ruby on Rails Tutorial by Michael Hartl
Read
The Four Steps to the Epiphany
Business Model Generation: A Handbook for Visionaries, Game Changers, and Challengers
Meet other entrepreneurs
Startup and Entrepreneurship Meetups
Visit Blogs
Hadiyah Mujhid 
I’m new to the Tech industry totally!! I had an idea and designed it had it developed, launched it in itunes and now because it was so much fun! Using the time off from work “worker comp” I created 14 other apps and 2 Hardware cellphone devices. This is with no education or experience in the tech field. Now how should i get exposure. I see in the news that African American’s are 1% involved in this industry..How can i be found, I’m an A/A Female Grandma?
Congratulations!!! You’re right! Just because you build it doesn’t mean they will come. Getting the exposure you want and need is a dedicated effort of part marketing and part customer development. Write press releases to tech writers and bloggers and ask for them to cover your product. But of course the best press is word of mouth. Go beyond your friends and family and talk to the actual or potential customers using your product. What are they saying about your product? Is it solving their problem? Customers passionate about your product is the best exposure that you can get. Talk to potential customers, learn what they really want, iterate your product, and repeat. Build a passionate customer base by solving the problems of your customers. They will gladly share their excitement for your product with their friends. Check out this post blog post on what is customer development http://www.startuplessonslearned.com/2008/11/what-is-customer-development.html Congratulations and much success to you as you continue to build your business!
Thank you so much Hadiyah for your advice I really appreciate it. I feel like a fish out of water but this really helps. I’m following you on twitter! Thanks again!
Sharon