Lately, I observed that creating useful tools for Bitcointalk is best way to earn merits. Now, if you don't have any such skills to offer then just stay active, pour your thoughts where you feel like to do so and slowly and steadily you will earn merits.

There are also merit giveaways and contests where you can take part. For example, this one: 🍑 PeachBitcoin [CHALLENGE] Run A Bitcoin Node: 14 Days To 14 Merits — such contests are running all the time and IMO these are better than 'start-up merits for newbies' idea you are proposing (I do see taking part in these contests require you to be somewhat active already but it's only fair).