u/Stanford_BC5533

Hello Everyone,

I have around 14 years of experience in data engineering. I recently started a small company focused on helping SMEs build modern data platforms so they can actually use their data properly (instead of having it sitting in spreadsheets, outdated systems, or half-broken pipelines).

I’m strong on the technical side designing and building solid, scalable data platforms is what I enjoy and what I am good at. The problem is everything else: sales, GTM, finding clients, talking about money. I have basically zero experience there.

Right now I am struggling to get the first few clients. I’ve even started thinking about doing the first project(s) at a very low rate or free (in exchange for a word of mouth and testimonial) just to prove what we can do. Part of me feels this is necessary to get momentum. Another part of me feels it’s a bad idea.

Has anyone here been in a similar situation (technical founder / small agency starting out)?

What actually worked for you to get the first clients when you had strong delivery skills but weak sales skills?

Open to any honest advice and feedback.

Hey everyone,

Quick question for MSP owners: How do you handle clients who ask for complex data platform work, database migrations, or AI automation when it falls outside your team's core scope?

I have more than 14 years of experience in the data domain building data platforms, and I recently launched my company to focus exclusively on specialized Data & AI architecture and cloud modernization:

Building Modern Data Platforms: End-to-end data platform setup, telemetry, and pipeline architecture.

Modernizing Data Platforms & Cloud Migrations: Migrating legacy data workloads to AWS/GCP and modernizing data infrastructure.

Everything as Code : Repeatable, fully version-controlled environments.

AI-Driven Productivity: Implementing AI tools and workflows to boost client operational efficiency.

Because our focus is strictly on specialized data and AI Engineering, we do zero helpdesk, endpoint management, or traditional IT support.

We’re looking to connect with established MSPs who want a reliable, non-competing partner to handle out-of-scope data projects either as a trusted referral partner or as a white-label backend execution team for your client projects. As we grow our client base, any traditional MSP or helpdesk opportunities we encounter will go straight to our partner network.

If you are turning this kind of work away or want to explore partnerships, shoot me a DM or let's chat in the comments !

I am the founder of Orioverse a specialized B2B startup focused on delivering custom AI and data-driven solutions designed to modernize legacy workflows for small and mid-market businesses. We build tailored internal tools, automated workflows, and modern data architectures that turn unstructured company data into operational efficiency, presenting a classic high-margin SaaS/Enterprise AI play targeting companies eager to catch up on digital transformation.

If you would like to know more on how we can support your business, You are more than welcome to reply to this thread or reach out to us on info@orioverse.com