Every big tech company started with an idea — often simple, often in a small room, often with a tiny team. The challenge isn’t always having the idea; it’s convincing others to believe in it and join you.

This guide shows you how to pitch your project idea in a way that excites others, and how to recruit teammates online (including in communities like Africoders).

Step 1: Start With the Problem

Don’t lead with your “brilliant app idea.” Lead with the problem.

• Example: “Students waste hours trying to find past exam papers.”

• Example: “Farmers lose 40% of produce before it reaches the market.”

When people understand the pain point, they’re more likely to care about your solution.

Step 2: Share the Solution Simply

Don’t drown people in jargon. Explain your idea in one or two sentences.

• Instead of: “A blockchain-enabled decentralized logistics optimization tool…”

• Say: “An app that helps farmers deliver fresh produce to buyers faster and safer.”

If your grandma can understand it, you’re on the right track.

Step 3: Highlight Why Now

Great ideas die if people think the timing isn’t right.

• What trend makes your idea urgent?

• What gap exists today that didn’t yesterday?

Example: “Food delivery apps are booming in Lagos, but none focus on students who need affordable late-night meals.”

Step 4: Be Honest About What You Need

When recruiting, don’t just say “I need a developer.” Be specific.

• Do you need a backend developer for APIs?

• A designer to make the UI less intimidating?

• A marketer to spread the word on Instagram?

This clarity helps the right people step forward.

Step 5: Show Commitment

Nobody wants to join an idea that won’t survive past the weekend. Demonstrate seriousness by:

• Sharing mockups (use Figma or Canva).

• Writing a simple document describing the project.

• Showing that you’ve already done research or started coding.

Step 6: Where to Pitch

• Africoders → Project Ideas & Team Formation.

• Twitter/X tech spaces.

• Campus hackathons.

• WhatsApp/Telegram tech groups.

Step 7: Expect “No’s”

Not everyone will join. That’s okay. Even rejections teach you how to pitch better.

Step 8: Protect Your Idea, But Don’t Hide It

Some fear: “If I share, someone will steal my idea.” The truth: execution matters more than ideas. Share enough to attract help, and use NDAs/contracts later if needed.

Final Take

Pitching is about storytelling. If people connect with your vision, they’ll join not just for money, but for passion.