The $100 Startup. Book summary.

First of all

I’m writing this summary for people who doesn’t have enough time to read it on their own. I’m gonna give you the most important thoughts of mine from this book. Of course it’s worth to read it, because everyone can have different reflections about it.

About the author

Chris Guillebeau is an American nonfiction author, blogger and speaker. He is best known for The Art of Non-Conformity blog and book. He has also written guides for travel and small business topics under the brand Unconventional Guides.



“Always revisit your decisions in the light of new knowledge and information. Don't be afraid to change.”

The most important lessons

• Just because you’re passionate about something, doesn’t mean that people will share your passion and pay money for it.(Passion or skill + usefulness)


• Ask yourself, 3 questions:
  a. How can I monetize my idea?
  b. How much will I earn on this product?
  c. Could the same clients pay me several times?


• A little bit of action is better than a ton of theory.


• Creating value is about helping other people.


• The more you advertise the basic benefits instead of features of the product or service you offer, the easier you will earn on your business idea. The main benefits are related to emotional rather than physical human needs.


• Guarantee the security of transactions.


• It is easier to sell something to the customer if he is aware of the problem and is convinced of the need to get rid of it, than to convince someone, that he has a problem, that needs to be solved.


• Offer your clients several different price levels.


• Keep in touch with existing customers.


• If you give customers more than is expected, it reassures them that they made a good decision.


• Create a gallery of satisfied customers.


• Encourage your clients to recommend your services.

This book explains in a simple way how to start our business. It teaches you how to get long term customers and make them buy your products several times. I recommend it to everyone who wants to build a start-up.

Thank you very much for reading! Have a good day!