Applications for a new, highly anticipated program led by prominent indie hacker Minh-Phuc Tran and his co-hosts have officially closed, attracting an impressive 336 prospective participants. The initiative, characterized by a promise of an intensive period to get projects "locked in and ready to ship," has now moved into a challenging selection phase for the organizers. Finalists are scheduled to be announced by the end of this month, providing them with a two-month preparation window before the program's rigorous development phase commences.
Minh-Phuc Tran is a well-known figure in the global indie hacking and startup community, celebrated for his prolific output in product development and a track record of successfully building and selling multiple ventures. His public "building in public" approach and the acquisition of his startup, Queue.so, have established his credibility and attracted a significant following among aspiring entrepreneurs. This new program aligns directly with his established focus on practical, outcome-driven creation, offering a structured environment for innovation.
The substantial volume of 336 applications underscores a significant and growing demand for structured guidance and accelerated development within the independent product building landscape. "I and other cohosts will have a hard time deciding the finalist as there were 336 awesome people applied," Tran stated in a tweet, highlighting the competitive nature of the selection process. This high level of interest suggests the program is perceived as a valuable opportunity for individuals looking to translate their ideas into tangible, market-ready products.
While the specific curriculum and format of the program remain largely unrevealed, the evocative phrase "locked in and ready to ship!" strongly implies an immersive and highly focused period dedicated to the rapid development and launch of projects. The two-month preparation period for selected finalists, prior to the program's official start, indicates that participants are expected to arrive with foundational ideas or early-stage prototypes. This structure aims to maximize the intensive development phase, pushing participants towards a tangible outcome.
This overwhelming response to Tran's initiative reflects a broader industry trend where individual builders and small teams are seeking practical, hands-on experience and direct mentorship to navigate the complexities of launching new ventures. Such programs are becoming increasingly vital in fostering innovation and empowering a new generation of founders to bypass traditional startup pathways. The program's success in attracting a diverse and large pool of talent further highlights the vibrant and expanding independent builder ecosystem, eager for opportunities to accelerate their projects.