From tech employee to founder
You don't need to quit tomorrow. You need a clear plan so you jump when you're ready.
You're a product manager, an engineer, or in business development, and there's an idea keeping you up at night. The first question in your head: should I quit?
The answer is usually: not yet. There are steps before that which make the jump safer and smarter.
1. Start as a side project
Work on the idea in the evenings and on weekends. Talk to customers, build a simple version, and see if anyone will pay. Before anything else, read your employment contract: the IP and non-compete clauses matter.
2. Build your runway
Work out your real monthly expenses, and save enough to cover at least 12 months without a salary. Money pressure pushes you into bad decisions.
3. Find a co-founder
Solo founders have it harder. Look for someone who complements you: if you're technical, find someone who sells. Most importantly, agree on roles and equity in writing from day one.
4. Use the programs
Saudi Arabia has many programs that back founders early, like The Garage, the Badir Program for Technology Incubators, and Misk Launchpad, each with its own criteria and the stage it fits. See the full list on our accelerators and incubators page.
5. Set your jump signal
Write down the condition that, once met, means you resign: say, your first 10 paying customers, or acceptance into an accelerator. That way the decision rests on evidence, not excitement.
Tonight: write your jump signal in one line, and give it a date to review it.
