(In the age of AI, how far can a non-technical founder really go alone?)
AI makes it easier than ever to build a product.
It does not make it easier to build the right product.
And if you’re a non-technical founder without clear tech direction, AI tools can accelerate mistakes just as fast as progress.
So the real question is:
How far can you build alone – and when do you actually need a developer?
This session is designed specifically for non-technical founders building software, automation, or AI who want to move fast without losing control.
If you’ve been:
- experimenting with AI tools but unsure what’s “good”
- wondering whether you even need a developer yet
- worried about hiring too early (or too late)
- overwhelmed by scope creep and shiny tools
- searching for a CTO before validating your idea
This webinar will give you clarity.
You’ll learn:
- when AI tools are enough
- when you’re entering risky technical territory
- when to bring in a senior developer
- when a CTO actually makes sense
- how to avoid expensive rebuilds
- how to use AI intelligently without becoming dependent on it
This is not a coding workshop.
It’s a tech leadership and decision workshop – for founders who want to build lean while staying in control.
Hosted by – Matt Ainsworth
Product, marketing and communication specialist
For over 9 years across the startup ecosystems of Japan and Australia, Matt has worked closely with founders navigating product, growth, hiring, and tech decisions.
He is especially focused on helping non-technical founders move from feeling dependent on tech partners to confidently leading their build with structure and clarity.
Joined by – Kale Miller
AI & Data Specialist | Fractional CTO
Founder of Prometheus AI, Kale helps Australian businesses harness data, AI, and automation in practical, commercially grounded ways.
With hands-on experience building data and AI systems from 0→1 and leading engineering teams, Kale brings a pragmatic perspective on when AI is enough – and when proper engineering structure is essential.
If you’re planning to build in the next 3-6 months, this session will help you avoid expensive missteps and install the right guardrails from the start.
Build lean. Build intelligently. Stay in control.
Not part of our AU x JP Startups slack channel yet ? Join here – https://join.slack.com/t/startuptodayjpau/shared_invite/zt-3nhixxttc-9RYrkSusbk7HEM3QBQJvXg
2 responses to “Do You Still Need a Dev to Build Your MVP?”
[…] this stage, whether you need a developer comes down to what you’re actually trying to build – and how much the failure costs if […]
[…] Use the Lean CPTO first – before any hiring decision. If you don’t yet have a paying customer or a validated assumption, that’s the conversation to have before you spend money on development. For more on when you actually need a developer, read this article. […]