Entrepreneurs vs Appreneurs: What Makes Startups Different

If you keep up with the tech scene, chances are you’ve heard the term “appreneur.” While it’s often used interchangeably with “entrepreneur,” mobile businesses are actually radically different from other entrepreneurial endeavors.

That isn’t to say it’s easy. In fact, mobile startups have never faced tougher odds. For those who have the right mix of drive and talent, however, the sky is the limit for what mobile app developers can accomplish by harnessing the power of mobile tech.

Here are some of the biggest differences between appreneurs and entrepreneurs — and some of the most important attributes mobile startup founders need to succeed.

Move fast or fail

The biggest difference between the products mobile app developers make and more traditional software/hardware products is the need for speed. Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg’s mantra to “move fast and break things” has been taken to heart by San Francisco iPhone app developers for good reason — the high-competition and high-turnover nature of mobile tech creates an environment where businesses have to react quickly to keep pace.

Roller-coaster lifestyle

Check out the hashtag #StartupStress on Twitter and you’ll see that the business of mobile app development comes with a serious workload. Even for appreneurs who love the startup life, tech businesses have a high burnout rate for the sheer intensity of getting a high-growth company off the ground.

High risk, high upside

At the end of the day, true appreneurs persist in chasing the mobile app development dream for two reasons. First, the possibility to change the world. Second, the possibility to create a company that grows to become the next Snapchat or Instagram. The rewards for those who succeed are great both emotionally and financially.