A precise step-by-step roadmap for launching a direct lead generation business requires $25-100K starting capital. The critical insight is that sequence determines success - doing step seven before step three guarantees failure. The first four weeks involve zero traffic spend, focusing entirely on validation: calling 10+ potential buyers to learn volumes, prices, and frustrations; running the math check (if CPC is $15 and buyers pay $25, you need 60% conversion just to break even); and assessing compliance burden for your chosen vertical. Weeks three and four establish the legal and compliance foundation: forming LLC, opening dedicated business accounts (never commingling funds), securing E&O and cyber liability insurance, integrating consent documentation via TrustedForm or Jornaya ($0.15-0.50 per lead), and implementing TCPA-compliant disclosure language reviewed by an attorney. The 30% rule mandates no single buyer exceeds 30% of revenue, and you must secure three committed buyers before spending any traffic dollars. Weeks five through seven build infrastructure including landing pages, server-side tracking with unique lead IDs, and delivery systems - potentially ping-post auction platforms like Boberdoo, LeadExec, or LeadsPedia that sell leads to highest bidders in real-time.