We Built an AI Platform While Working 9 to 5. Here’s How We Hit $2.75K MRR in 1 Month

2024-06-18 · Source: To Data & Beyond · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Cloud Computing & IT Infrastructure, Entrepreneurship & Start-ups · Depth: Intermediate, medium

Summary

Kevin Gabeci and Kejvi launched Apatero Studio in June 2025, an AI image and video generation platform designed to simplify complex ComfyUI workflows. Six months after starting, the "side project" achieved over $33,000 in annual recurring revenue (ARR) and $2,750+ in January 2026 revenue, attracting 1,350+ users and 23 paying customers. The platform, built with React, Django, PostgreSQL, Redis, and Celery, focuses on abstracting the technical complexities of AI generation, including GPU management and VRAM optimization. Their initial growth was driven primarily by consistent SEO-focused content, specifically tutorials and guides related to ComfyUI, rather than paid advertising or viral marketing.

Key takeaway

For entrepreneurs or AI engineers considering a side project, focus on solving a clear user pain point by simplifying complex technical processes. Your initial growth can be driven by consistent, targeted content marketing and SEO, even without a large budget. Maintain your primary employment until your venture reaches a sustainable revenue threshold, such as $10K MRR, to ensure stability while building.

Key insights

Simplifying complex AI tools for broader accessibility can create significant market opportunities.

Principles

• Infrastructure evolves with scale.
• SEO builds compounding organic growth.
• Co-founder synergy is crucial.

Method

The team built an MVP using a standard web stack, focused on robust infrastructure for AI generation, and then leveraged consistent, targeted SEO content to drive organic user acquisition before formal marketing efforts.

In practice

• Target pain points of complex tools.
• Prioritize robust, scalable infrastructure.
• Invest in consistent SEO content early.

Topics

• AI Image Generation
• Startup Growth
• SaaS Infrastructure
• SEO Strategy
• Side Project

Best for: AI Engineer, MLOps Engineer, Entrepreneur

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by To Data & Beyond.