How do I find startups that are looking for a dev? How to approach them?

Question

I have been trying platforms such as Work at a Startup, Wellfound, LinkedIn, and other job boards, but not much of remote hiring(outside US). Nothing on hiring thread as well.I have been working with react, next.js , react native and node.js from last 4 years and more. I wanna to join an early-stage startup, contribute closely to the product, and learn more about a startup.Whenever I find an interesting startup, I usually reach out through email or Discord. Most of the time, they are either not hiring, do not have the budget, or do not reply. I have also tried approaching founders with specific suggestions about how I could improve or help build their website or product but no luck.I have the flexibility to take some risk so idm working on contract, freelance type. I just wanna have try something like this.Do you have any suggestions?

boveyking · Accepted Answer

Participating conferences and events is great way to meet people and find opportunities.

mvsingh · Answer

Check websites like YC, X and Linkedin connect with founders there. Talk about your work, projects and ask them if they have any dev roles or know anyone in their network hiring. Cold outreach is the way to go. But be human do not use AI here to automate or write DM's. Also attend events in your city and also connect with founders on Instagram. A lot of them are active, post about open roles.

NishanStepak · Answer

The Built In Pages have lots of startups on them.https://www.builtinnyc.com/ They cover a number of specific cities like Austin, Boston, San Francisco, Seattle and other places. They also have news and company pages.

lubujackson · Answer

Wellfound.com, workatastartup.com