How to launch a side project that makes money from the first day on

As a dev who spent a couple of weeks trying to configure an automated Amazon EC2 setup, I can totally relate to what they're saying. Not really something new, but a good reminder to keep it simple, and I appreciate them saying what providers they used.

I don't agree. Even if they point direct to their product it is good to see that you don't need a big VC in these times to start something new. And to get money out with it.

Maybe side projects may actually just rock? They typically introduce tighter constraints (otherwise they risk undermining 'main' projects) and yet they almost inevitably feel much more 'safe-fail'. Isn't this special mixture likely to make side projects leaner, yet more 'outside the box' startups than main projects , combining an improvisation-encouraging restriction of resources with a creativity-inspiring 'fear-deficit'?

I second that - I'm finding promotion to be the #1 area I'm lacking in atm.

Take it one step further: make an MVP, within a domain you already are familiar with and charge for it. Also buy (SaaS), don't build, when possible.

I would like to add: launching any business is hard. Keeping it running is harder, because it requires discipline and perseverance. Making your business grow substantially over time is even harder as it takes all of the elements above and the ability to build a fantastic team.