Backend Development for Startups
Ship your MVP fast with a scalable foundation. I help startups build backend systems that work today and scale to millions of users tomorrow.
Why Startups choose to work with me
- MVP-first approach: launch in weeks, not months
- Architecture that scales without rewrites as you grow
- Cost-efficient tech stack choices for early-stage budgets
- PyCon speaker with deep FastAPI and Python expertise
- Experience building systems at unicorn-scale companies
Why Startups Need the Right Backend from Day One
The biggest technical mistake startups make is building a backend that can't scale past their first 1,000 users. Rebuilding your entire system while trying to grow is painful and expensive.
The second biggest mistake? Over-engineering from the start. You don't need Kubernetes and microservices for your MVP. You need a well-structured monolith that's easy to extend, test, and eventually decompose as your team and traffic grow.
I help startups find the sweet spot: simple enough to ship fast, structured enough to scale later.
My Approach with Startups
Every startup engagement follows a practical methodology:
- Understand the product: What problem are you solving? Who are your users? What does success look like in 6 months?
- Design the data model: Get the database schema right early. This is the hardest thing to change later.
- Build the MVP API: FastAPI + PostgreSQL + Redis. A proven stack that handles everything from a handful of users to millions.
- Set up CI/CD: Automated testing and deployment from day one. No "we'll add tests later" - that never happens.
- Document and hand off: Your team can maintain and extend everything I build.
Key Services
MVP Backend Development
Go from idea to working API in 2-4 weeks. FastAPI, PostgreSQL, and a clean architecture your team can extend.
Architecture Review
Already have a backend? I'll review your architecture, identify bottlenecks, and create a scaling roadmap.
Performance Optimization
Slow API responses killing your conversion? I'll optimize queries, add caching, and improve response times.
Technical Due Diligence
Raising a round? I help investors and founders assess technical architecture, code quality, and scaling risks.
Recommended Tech Stack
Technologies I typically use for Startups
FastAPI for the API layer, PostgreSQL for the database, Redis for caching and sessions, Docker for consistent environments, GitHub Actions for CI/CD, and AWS or GCP for hosting. This stack is battle-tested at scale and cost-effective for startups.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to build a startup MVP backend?
A typical API backend MVP takes 2-6 weeks depending on complexity. This includes authentication, core business logic, database design, API documentation, basic admin tools, and deployment setup. I prioritize shipping fast while maintaining code quality.
What technology stack do you recommend for startups?
FastAPI + PostgreSQL + Redis is my go-to recommendation. It's fast to develop with, performs exceptionally well, has excellent documentation, and scales to millions of users. I avoid over-engineering early - you can always add complexity later.
Can you work with our existing team?
Absolutely. I often work alongside startup engineering teams, handling backend architecture while they focus on frontend or other features. I document everything and conduct code reviews to ensure knowledge transfer.
Need expert backend development?
I build scalable Python APIs and backend systems. Let's discuss your project.
Get in Touch