Finding "smart nerds" really won't work. First of all, quite a few of them will be disliking you for using a derogatory term. If you've got a tech person looki

Finding "smart nerds" really won't work. First of all, quite a few of them will be disliking you for using a derogatory term. If you've got a tech person looking for a "PR flak" or a "business suit", you'd be offended too. Try treating people you want to partner with as human beings. I hear it helps. Second, take a look at what value _you_ bring to the table. If your idea is indeed worthless, why would anybody sign up to work with you? It's perfectly fine if your answer is e.g. "my Rolodex". The point is, know your strengths. Find people who complete you. A truly brilliant idea with a strong vision _is_ worth something. It's worth nothing by itself, but the same holds true for technical brilliance. Or a great Rolodex. Or insane sales skills. You'll need _all_ of that to succeed, and a huge dose of luck. The one difference between the idea and the others is that an idea loses value over time, so you've got to bring more than an idea. If your answer however is "I don't bring much to the table, except an idea", you're in trouble. You shouldn't worry about finding smart people who can help you, you should think about clarifying what it is you can contribute _after_ that first meeting.