[eonpi]

The best choice usually comes down to:

1) References: you may want to prioritize working with freelancers or a dev shop you have worked with before, and has resulted in a good experience, or you have recommendation from someone you really trust.

2) Cost: can you afford the option you trust the most? If not, you might need to go with the next one.

3) Commitment: in the case of an extended engagement, will your choice be available, and will the terms remain the same? If not, same as above, go with the next in your list.

[quotz]

Thank you for the advice. However, if I run out of the references, where else would I be able to find talent? Are online freelancing websites like upwork and toptal worth it?

[eonpi]

Freelancing websites sometimes have talented folks, but long term projects may be tricky. The nice thing is that usually the funds are held in escrow, so if the work isn't done to your satisfaction you may be able to recover some, or most of your money.

Since we are also in validation phase, you are welcome to send a DM on Mastodon or Twitter with some of the details, and if the idea fits our current effort, given proper evaluation, we might be able to get you a POC at no charge.