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MVP Development for a Networking App Like LinkedIn – The Smart Startup Approach

  • Writer: Hrutvik Khunt
    Hrutvik Khunt
  • 4 days ago
  • 3 min read

Building the next LinkedIn isn’t just about ambition, it’s about strategy. For US-based founders and startup teams, the best way to test your idea for a professional networking app is through MVP development.


At Indent Technologies, we specialize in helping early-stage startups develop lean, functional MVPs for platforms like LinkedIn, focusing on core features, scalable architecture, and fast delivery.


Let’s explore what it takes to launch an MVP for a networking app, why it’s the right move for your startup, and how we help you get to market quickly.

What is MVP Development for a Networking App?


MVP (Minimum Viable Product) development is the process of building a lightweight version of your app that focuses on core functionality. It allows you to validate your idea, gather user feedback, and attract early adopters, without spending months or hundreds of thousands on full development.


In the context of a networking platform like LinkedIn, an MVP may include:

  • User profiles

  • Basic connection or follow system

  • News feed or activity stream

  • Messaging (optional)

  • Job or opportunity listings

  • Profile search

Why Build an MVP for Your LinkedIn-style App?


If you’re targeting professionals, freelancers, or niche communities in the US, starting lean helps you:


Validate Your Niche

Test whether your app idea solves a real networking problem for a specific audience—before scaling.


Build at Low Cost

Full-scale apps like LinkedIn take years to build. An MVP gets you live in 3–6 weeks at a fraction of the cost.


Impress Investors

US-based VCs and angels are far more likely to fund a working prototype than just a deck.


Focus on What Matters

An MVP forces you to prioritize only mission-critical features, not bells and whistles.

Core Features of a Networking App MVP


Here’s what a lean MVP might include:


1. User Registration & Profile

Basic signup/login (email or LinkedIn OAuth), user photo, job title, skills, bio.


2. Connections or Follow System

Let users follow or connect with other profiles. This can be one-way (like Twitter) or mutual (like LinkedIn).


3. Activity Feed

Display posts or updates from connections. Simple text/image posts work great at MVP stage.


4. Search Function

Allow users to search other professionals by name, title, or industry.


5. Post Creation & Engagement

Users can post status updates, like or comment (can be optional in MVP).


6. Admin Dashboard

Manage users and content in a secure backend panel.

How We Build It: Our MVP Development Process


At Indent Technologies, we’ve refined our MVP process to help US-based founders build fast and smart.


Discovery & Planning

We begin with a discovery call to understand your target market (e.g., creators, lawyers, students) and key problems to solve.


UI/UX & Prototype (Optional)

We can create a clickable prototype using FlutterFlow to simulate the experience, ideal for pitch decks and testing.


Backend Architecture

We use Django or FastAPI to build scalable, secure APIs with full authentication.


Frontend Development

For web apps: Vue.js or React

For mobile apps: Flutter/FlutterFlow


Testing & Launch

We deploy to AWS, Vercel, or Firebase depending on your tech stack, and help you go live quickly.

Why Choose Indent Technologies?


  • Trusted by US-based early-stage founders

  • Affordable packages starting at $99 for prototypes

  • Fast MVP turnaround: 3–6 weeks

  • Experienced with social & networking logic

  • Scalable codebase for future versions


Whether you're building a LinkedIn for Gen Z, a startup co-founder network, or a niche community for freelancers, we help you test and launch with confidence.

Real-World Example: Startup MVPs We've Built


  • A creator networking app with monetization tools

  • A freelancer job board with profile browsing and chat

  • A mentorship matchmaking platform with private messaging

  • A founder connection tool to find co-founders and startup talent

Conclusion


Don’t wait to build the “perfect” app. Start with a purposeful MVP. Whether you’re in New York, Austin, or Silicon Valley, the US startup ecosystem rewards speed, clarity, and traction.


At Indent Technologies, we’re your tech partner for getting that first version live, fast and lean.


Ready to Build the MVP for Your Networking App?

Book a free consultation or Get started for just $99 with a clickable prototype.

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