Instead of offering broad design services, a specialized agency can build expertise and command premium pricing by focusing exclusively on a single, high-demand trend. Implementing gamification for existing apps and websites is a prime example of such a lucrative niche.
The most effective affiliate programs target smaller creators (<120k followers), offer unusually high lifetime commissions (30-50%), and gamify the experience by creating competitions with significant prizes (e.g., a trip or a car) to maximize motivation and growth.
A consumer-focused app, such as a safety platform for travelers, can create a high-margin B2B offering by selling "safety certifications" to businesses like hotels. This creates a new, highly scalable income source beyond individual user subscriptions.
Counter to fears that foundation models will obsolete all apps, AI startups can build defensible businesses by embedding AI into unique workflows, owning the customer relationship, and creating network effects. This mirrors how top App Store apps succeeded despite Apple's platform dominance.