Launching a startup as a dropout: 10 lessons by founders who dropped out

For the past four years, I’ve been co-building global startups with French dropouts. In France, dropouts often face social stigma and isolation — especially those with ambitions to create world-changing ventures. In a country where education is free, the opportunity cost of stepping off the traditional path is often misunderstood, leaving those who follow their convictions marginalized. At THE QUEST, we support those unique builders, helping them pursue their quests in a non-toxic environment, with a €100,000 check and a 12-month co-building program.

To build the best program, we worked with high-performance experts across various fields — from sports trainers to pop star managers. I also took on a side quest: interviewing top dropout founders to better understand their unique professional and personal challenges.

I had the opportunity to connect with exceptional entrepreneurs across all continents, employing thousands of people, leading companies valued billions. I uncovered their challenges, insights, and hard-won wisdom. Here are the ten most valuable lessons I learned — the ones I wish I’d known when I dropped out of school to chase my own quest.

1. Pursue an obsession, not just a trend

Building on a genuine passion creates a foundation far stronger than chasing fleeting trends. When you’re truly drawn to something, the daily grind feels less like work and more like an extension of your enthusiasm. This sense of obsession fuels resilience and creativity, helping you push through both highs and lows with a purpose.

Abhijeet Singh, who started modding games in his teens purely for the love of it, shared how his journey was shaped not by profit but by an enduring obsession with game development.

+350M people use the apps he built in his room — Abhijeet Singh (@RedLine Games) — DROPOUTS #10

2. Get comfortable being Self-Taught

The dropout path often demands initiative and resourcefulness. Many founders have built their skills through hands-on projects and tapping into online resources. If traditional school isn’t for you, leverage the abundance of resources available to gain practical knowledge.

Blake Resnik, founder of BRINC Drones (valued at $300 million), shared that the internet was his primary teacher; from forums to YouTube, he developed his expertise by tackling problems one at a time.

24yo Dropout’s $300M US Drone Empire in US — Blake Resnick (@BRINC Drones) — DROPOUTS #7

3. Network unlock opportunities

Without formal networking channels, dropouts often find success by building connections online. Many founders expanded their circles by joining niche communities — like game forums or industry-specific LinkedIn groups — where they could exchange ideas and gather valuable feedback. The key is to connect with people equally invested in your field and learn from them.

As Arjun Khemani shared, “Don’t be afraid to reach out — people are often willing to help if you show genuine interest.”

Dropping out at 17yo to build with Naval Ravikant — Arjun Khemani (@Airchat) — DROPOUTS #2

4. Experiment — every time

In entrepreneurship, waiting for the perfect idea or the ideal circumstances is a trap. The most successful founders understand that learning happens through action, not just planning. Start small, dive into projects, and keep adapting as you go. Even if your idea isn’t fully formed, every step forward — every experiment — brings new insights, builds resilience, and helps you refine your direction. The key is to keep moving, even through uncertainty, and let each experiment become a stepping stone toward growth.

Sheridan Clayborne, co-founder of the $100M YC-backed company Lendtable, exemplifies the power of relentless experimentation. He believes waiting for the “perfect” moment holds you back; instead, real progress comes from constant experimentation and hands-on learning.

From $10M in Sneaker Sales to $100M Startup — Sheridan Clayborne (@Lendtable) — DROPOUTS #6

5. Choose an environment that pushes you

If you’re aiming for growth, choosing the right environment can make all the difference. Being surrounded by ambitious, like-minded people who inspire and challenge you opens doors, sharpens your skills, and fuels your drive. The right community not only offers support but also exposes you to fresh ideas, new opportunities, and a higher standard of excellence.

For Nick, relocating to Silicon Valley — a global hub of innovation and ambition — was a turning point. The environment pushed him beyond his comfort zone, proving how much a strong network can elevate both your vision and your results.

Raising $12M as dropout to Build Houses with 3D & VR — Nick Donahue (@Atmos) — DROPOUTS #3

6. Start small, Scale sustainably

Scaling doesn’t need to happen all at once. By “shipping light” with simpler, manageable projects, you can learn, adapt, and build a solid foundation before expanding. Focusing on achievable goals first creates stepping stones for bigger initiatives, allowing for sustainable growth and reducing the risk of overwhelming your resources. Starting small not only builds confidence but also ensures you’re ready for larger challenges when the time is right.

As Tugan’s journey shows, this approach to gradual scaling keeps you flexible and resilient.

From HEC Dropout to $100M Crypto Success — Tugan Bara (@Side) — DROPOUTS #5

7. Commit deeply to a single path

Success often requires choosing one area to focus on and resisting the distractions of fleeting trends. Committing deeply to a single field builds credibility, expertise, and lasting impact over time. This dedication allows you to master your craft, establish authority, and make a meaningful difference.

Alex’s commitment to crypto reflects this mindset — he avoided distractions, remained focused, and became a credible voice in his industry. As seen in Alex and other entrepreneurs, success is about more than strategy; it’s about the mindset, environment, and unwavering commitment you bring to the journey.

He created the first Creator Token and Raised $10M at 24yo — Alex Masmej (@Showtime) — DROPOUTS #1

8. It’s a question of timing

Several founders underscored the importance of seizing the moment when opportunities arise. Blake’s decision to develop an American-made drone came during a period when Chinese drones faced import restrictions in the U.S. Recognizing and acting on market shifts can give startups a competitive edge. As these founders show, adapting to changing landscapes is critical — find where the market is heading and align your offering with those future needs.

24yo Dropout’s $300M US Drone Empire in US — Blake Resnick (@BRINC Drones) — DROPOUTS #7

9. A Vision that inspires, a Mission that guides

A strong vision sets the direction, while a clear mission drives the actions needed to get there. Start by defining a vision that feels ambitious but aligns with your core values, something that keeps you motivated even in challenging times. Then, develop a mission that outlines your purpose and the tangible impact you want to achieve.

As Edward Meel found, having a purpose beyond profit not only helps you stay grounded but also attracts customers, team members, and partners who resonate with your values. A compelling vision and mission give your business a deeper meaning and fuel its long-term growth.

He Dropped Out to create a Startup during Covid — Edouard Merle (@Teliosa) — DROPOUTS #4

10. Choosing the Boldest Quest

Every journey you take in entrepreneurship will demand time, energy, and commitment, leaving its mark on your life. Since each path comes with sacrifices, why not aim for the most ambitious quest you can take on? Choose a mission that pushes your limits, excites you, and has a real impact. It’s easy to settle for what’s comfortable, but investing in something big and bold brings deeper rewards. Pursuing an ambitious vision keeps you engaged, helps you grow, and shapes a journey worth every moment.

Sasha, founder of Mobula, advises: if a journey will consume a part of your life, let it be one that drives real impact.

The 16yo Emancipated Guy behind Crypto Data (0 to $7.5M) — Sacha Marcus (@Mobula) — DROPOUTS #9

These dropout founders show that the path to success doesn’t have to be traditional. They underscore the value of passion, resilience, and adaptability in building a startup without a degree. For anyone considering this route, remember: commitment, self-teaching, and a focus on quality and growth will be your biggest strengths. If you’re ready to push through the challenges, the journey can indeed lead to remarkable success.