I'm building a tech solution for hedge funds as my side project during non-compete. I already chatted with a few hedge fund leads in my social circle to make sure the product aligns their needs, while I still want to learn more about the customer base. Does anyone know the best way to chat like once per month with book runners that could make a purchase decision? I can afford up to 10K for such service but probably money is the least important factor here
Assuming it's tech oriented and not-alpha/specific data set; most multistrats have dedicated tech solutions teams that vet infrastructure.
That's true, but meanwhile many non-mega shops also purchase external solutions when (1) the internal tech doesn't have enough capacity, or (2) when the complexity to copy external solutions exceeds the cost to buy, which is the competitive edge of building a small self-contained solution.
The multi managers actually just buy everything cause they're in the business of enabling their traders and don't like to say "no". This creates a cobweb of shitty tech, but whatever. I think you can either target multimanagers with a general product or small shops where you contract a specific design/solution. Either strategy could work.
All the fintech solutions I have seen usually start off with what you are doing right now. Good luck!
Curious. What type of skills/knowledge are required for building tech solution for hedge funds?
Strong domain knowledge in a dedicated area. Experiences from big shops is often a must to convince folks to use it, meanwhile it's also essential to understand that small shops work differently.