Ask HN: Can you help get this web app out of limbo?
I have an app that is currently stuck in limbo. I opened it up to a private alpha test awhile ago and learned a lot about what would make it successful and a lot about what is currently unsuccessful. I'm not really looking for ways to improve the site - as I said, I pretty much know already.
I have put the project on hold as I have exhausted my ability to self-fund development. I believe that there is big potential for the project, but don't think the site is far enough along to seek vc funding. I have a rather succinct roadmap to beta, but there is a lot of work to be done. Maybe angel investment is an option, but I've exhausted all my personal connections to investors.
I am good at the creative side of things - not so much the business/networking side. Ideally I would like a talented rails programmer and/or business guru to partner up with on the project, but I don't know how to go about finding someone who fits the bill. Are there still people out there who are interested in working for equity?
Should I be writing emails and or cold calling the vc and angel investors? I have a good idea, a prototype and a business plan, but no traffic, no team, and no relationships to speak of.
I am hesitant to release the site details in a public forum as the site is premature and I have no way to counter potential theft or competition. The site is still in private alpha and apart from learning rails (tried once, not a good idea), I have no way to get it out of there.
I can email an alpha pass to anyone interested in checking it out, but I'm not comfortable discussing the details of the site in a public forum so I would request that you keep site specific comments limited to emails or the site forums.
Thanks in advance for any other ideas or advice.