Promoting a tech startup on a small budget can be challenging, but with creativity and strategic planning, it's entirely feasible.

Here are several effective methods to consider:
1. Leverage Social Media
Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn are powerful tools for reaching your target audience without significant costs.
Create Engaging Content: Share updates about your startup, industry news, and insightful articles. Use eye-catching visuals and videos to increase engagement.
Join Relevant Groups: Participate in niche groups on platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn where your target audience congregates. Share your expertise and subtly promote your startup.
Utilize Hashtags: Use relevant hashtags to increase the visibility of your posts. For example, if your startup focuses on AI, consider using hashtags like #AI, #TechStartups, or #Innovation.

2. Content Marketing
Creating valuable content can drive traffic to your website and establish your authority in the industry.
Start a Blog: Write articles that address common pain points in your industry or provide insights into your technology. For instance, if your startup offers a project management tool, you could write about productivity tips for remote teams.
Guest Blogging: Contribute articles to established blogs in your niche. This will help you reach a broader audience and build backlinks to your website.
Infographics and Videos: Visual content can be more engaging than text. Create infographics or short videos that explain your product or industry trends.

3. Networking and Community Engagement
Building connections within your industry can open doors to new opportunities.
Attend Meetups and Conferences: Participate in local tech meetups or industry conferences. Even if you cannot afford a booth, networking can lead to partnerships or visibility.
Join Online Communities: Platforms like Reddit and Quora have communities where you can share knowledge, answer questions, and subtly promote your startup.
Collaborate with Other Startups: Partner with complementary startups for co-marketing opportunities. For instance, if you offer a software solution, partner with a hardware company to cross-promote each other’s products.

4. Email Marketing
Email marketing is an effective way to keep your audience informed and engaged.
Build an Email List: Use lead magnets like free ebooks or trials to encourage visitors to subscribe to your newsletter.
Send Regular Updates: Keep your audience updated with company news, product launches, and valuable content. Tools like Mailchimp offer free plans for startups.

5. Utilize Free Tools and Resources
There are numerous free tools available that can help you promote your startup effectively.
Canva: Use Canva to create professional-looking graphics for social media posts and marketing materials.
Google Analytics: Track your website traffic and understand your audience better with Google Analytics.
Hootsuite or Buffer: These tools allow you to schedule social media posts, saving you time and ensuring consistent engagement.

6. Participate in Startup Competitions
Many organizations host startup competitions that provide exposure and potential funding. Research local or online competitions that align with your startup's mission.

7. Seek Media Coverage
Getting featured in blogs, podcasts, or local news can significantly boost your visibility.
Write a Press Release: Craft a compelling press release about your product launch or significant milestones and send it to local media outlets.
Pitch to Bloggers and Podcasters: Reach out to influencers in your industry and offer to provide insights or be featured in their content.

Conclusion
Promoting a tech startup on a small budget requires creativity, consistency, and strategic use of resources. By leveraging social media, creating valuable content, networking, and utilizing free tools, you can effectively increase your startup's visibility and reach your target audience without breaking the bank.