Great! I needed advice like this. I was tunnel visioning on the endgame thinking I needed a huge bankroll to start out with but you just gave me the reality check I needed. and you're entirely right - I would have to make the site reputable first before anyone trusts investing into it. I appreciate the response greatly
I can only imagine how much work this will be, but you seem to have the right mentality. If you are planning to go into this solo, I suggest you start exploring options that make the least amount of capital requirement on the line. Keep it simple, focus on starting your own game and make it a fun hobby with the potential to turn a profit. That is where you get your initial seed money and with time, as the site takes off, more people join, more money comes in, more customers and more revenue is generated. With time, you will learn the ropes and develop a very niche business that has a positive future for you and your customers. There is no risk of big losses here as long as you start out simple and build a strong foundation. Just have fun and try to do the best you can. Good luck in your endeavors!