What is a Startup Directory? A Complete Guide

What is a Startup Directory? A Complete Guide

I was reviewing client analytics last Tuesday and noticed a recurring pattern: a new SaaS, after submitting to 20+ directories, saw only 0.07% direct referral traffic from those sources. That's a massive effort for minimal return. Simply 'being listed' isn't enough anymore.

A startup directory is a curated online listing of new companies that helps founders increase visibility and connect with potential investors, customers, and partners. This is far from the old print Yellow Pages, which generated $16 billion in revenue in the US during the 1990s. Today, directories function as real-time maps of the innovation economy.

In 2026, these platforms are critical infrastructure for your SEO, investor discovery, and market validation. They are evolving beyond static lists. Exploding Topics' directory, for instance, updates in real-time, mapping the innovation economy as it shifts.

You need to move past merely existing on these lists. Your goal is to be actively discovered by the right people, (and by the way, not every directory is worth your time or even helps). We've seen many founders waste hundreds of hours on low-value sites.

This guide will show you exactly how to optimize your presence. Because with over 75,600 startups in the USA alone, you need every edge to stand out. And it starts with smart directory submissions. If you're looking for where to begin, check out our expert guide to the best SaaS directories for 2025 growth.

What is a startup directory?

A startup directory is an online database that categorizes new companies, connecting them with potential investors, customers, and partners. Think of it as a high-tech matchmaker.

Given that there are over 75,600 startups in the US alone, visibility is crucial. Directories are designed to cut through the noise.

But, not all directories are created equal. Here’s what you need to know:

• Directories vary widely. Some are niche-specific, while others are broad.
• They range in cost. Many are free, but the premium ones offer enhanced visibility.
• Submission processes differ. Some are straightforward, others require detailed applications.

These platforms can help startups get on the radar of potential investors and even spot breakout founders before the mainstream press picks up on them. The earliest forms of business directories can be tracked back to the print Yellow Pages, which were introduced by AT&T in 1886. It generated over $16 billion in revenue in the US alone in the 1990s. These days most of the startup directories have evolved from general online business directories, becoming more niche and targeted towards startups specifically.

A solid directory listing can deliver backlinks, improve your SEO ranking, and increase traffic. But the bigger issue is relevance. A directory focused on AI-powered marketing tools won’t do much good if you’re selling accounting software. Make sure you read our founder's guide to AI directory submissions to choose wisely.

Next up, let's look at why directories are so crucial for SEO.

How directories evolved from the Yellow Pages

Startup directories as we know them now didn't spring up overnight; their roots trace back to the late 19th century.

The evolution started with a simple need: connecting buyers and sellers.

From Print to Pixels

The AT&T Yellow Pages, first introduced in 1886, represents the genesis of business directories. For nearly a century, this directory, in its printed form, reigned supreme. It wasn't just a phone book; it was the original search engine.

That directory generated over $16 billion in revenue in the US alone in the 1990s. Imagine the paper cuts.

But as the internet bloomed, these static, paper-based directories began their digital transformation.

The Rise of Online Business Directories

The internet brought with it the proliferation of online business directories, a digital leap that expanded reach but also diluted relevance.

These early online directories were essentially digital versions of the Yellow Pages.

They listed businesses, contact information, and maybe a brief description. The problem? They were often unorganized and difficult to navigate. This is where the need for specialization became apparent.

The Niche Emerges: Startup Directories

Startup directories emerged as a response to the generic nature of broader online business listings. They focus specifically on new and emerging companies. This is especially useful, given that US Startups are the fastest growing in the world, with over 75,600 startups based in the USA.

These directories help narrow the field, creating a targeted space for startups to connect with investors, early adopters, and potential partners.

It’s like moving from a crowded shopping mall to a curated boutique.

And directories evolve beyond mere contact information. Modern platforms, like Exploding Topics' directory, offer real-time updates, growth signals, and trend tracking. This goes beyond static lists. You can now track which startups are trending, filter by growth velocity, or even spot breakout founders before the press does. It's now a powerful tool for market intelligence.

Now, let’s see why directories are so important for SEO. Don't forget to consider that there are hundreds of free and paid startup directories and databases online, however, not all are worth your time. If you're unsure which to pick, we recommend reading our guide to the best SaaS directories for 2025 growth.

Why founders list their companies in 2025

Founders list their companies in 2026 to amplify their brand awareness and build trust, not just to exist on another list. It’s about being seen, being trusted, and ultimately, winning users.

The problem? Founders often treat directory submissions as a one-off task, separate from their broader marketing strategy. This fails because visibility without a clear trust signal is worthless. So, founders, think about this when planning out the directory submissions.

• Increased Visibility: A well-placed listing puts your startup in front of potential customers, investors, and partners who are actively searching for solutions in your niche.
• Enhanced Brand Awareness: Consistent listings across relevant directories reinforce your brand's presence and recognition within your industry.
• Building Trust Signals: Listings in reputable directories act as trust signals, indicating that your startup has been vetted and recognized by industry platforms.
• SEO Benefits: Directories provide valuable backlinks that can improve your website's search engine ranking and overall online visibility. (Just be sure you're getting quality backlinks.

Directory submissions can also spotlight emerging trends and allow the ability to filter by category, growth velocity, or market stage. You can even spot breakout founders before mainstream press coverage.

Think of it this way: each listing is a digital handshake, a chance to make a lasting impression. Make sure your profile contains the information necessary to grab the attention of the reader. Make each word count. After all, the location for most startups include: US, India, UK, Brazil, UAE, Nigeria, Australia, San Francisco. You can check out our guide to SaaS growth through directory submissions for tips.

Building SEO authority and backlink profiles

Directories provide backlinks. Those backlinks improve your website's search engine ranking and drive more organic traffic.

Think of these links as digital endorsements. The more high-authority backlinks you have, the more credible your website appears to search engines like Google. Over time, this translates to better SEO ranking.

• Improved SEO ranking
• Increased organic traffic

But it's not just about quantity; it's about quality. A backlink from a reputable directory is worth far more than a dozen from spammy or irrelevant sites. These high-quality links signal to Google that your site is a trusted source of information within your industry, boosting your domain authority and making it easier to rank for relevant keywords.

Domain authority isn't built overnight. It’s a long-term play that compounds over time. A consistent strategy of securing backlinks from high-quality directories can generate exponential growth in organic traffic.

Attracting early investors and talent

Directories can be talent pipelines and investor bait. VCs and angel investors are constantly scouting for promising startups, and directories offer a concentrated source of potential investments.

They're not just browsing TechCrunch. They're digging through niche directories, trying to spot breakout founders before they hit mainstream press coverage. Think of directories as a scouting ground for early-stage opportunities. The top locations such as San Francisco, India, and the UK are all hubs for this activity.

Here's how they use these platforms:

• Identifying Emerging Trends: Investors use directories to track which sectors are heating up.
• Filtering by Growth Velocity: They look for startups with high growth rates, signaling strong market traction.
• Assessing Funding Stage: Directories allow investors to quickly identify companies that match their investment criteria, based on current funding stage or lack thereof.

The goal isn’t just to find any startup; it’s to discover the next unicorn early. And investors know that the next big thing might be buried deep within a niche directory, waiting to be discovered. So, a listing in the right place can put you on the radar of key players who can fuel your startup’s growth. Now, let's talk about SEO and backlink profiles.

Different types of startup directories

Not all startup directories are created equal; your choice significantly impacts your startup's visibility and reach. Think of it like choosing the right tool for a specific job – a wrench won't help you hammer a nail.

The problem? Founders often fall into the trap of indiscriminate submissions, spreading their resources thinly across irrelevant platforms. It’s essential to understand the different types of directories available.

• Industry-Specific Directories: These cater to particular sectors (e.g., SaaS, AI, Fintech).
• Funding Stage Directories: These target startups at specific stages of growth (e.g., seed, Series A).
• Geographic Focus Directories: These highlight startups within specific regions or countries.

For founders in the software space, choosing the right platform is critical; see our guide on the best free SaaS directories for specific recommendations. These directories offer more targeted exposure. And while the earliest forms of business directories were print Yellow Pages, introduced by AT&T in 1886, today everything has transitioned online.

The bottom line: tailor your submissions. A shotgun approach is rarely effective.

How to identify the right directories for your startup

Selecting the right directories hinges on understanding your target audience and your startup's unique value proposition. It’s not enough to just be listed; you need to be visible to the right eyes.

Start by asking yourself:

• Who are my ideal customers?
• What problem does my startup solve?
• Which industries or regions am I targeting?

These questions will guide your search. For example, if you're launching an AI-powered marketing tool, focus on directories that specialize in AI and/or marketing technology. And don't forget to check out our expert guide to the best SaaS directories for 2025 growth.

Next, evaluate directories based on the following criteria:

• Relevance: Is the directory focused on your industry or niche?
• Authority: Does the directory have a good reputation and strong domain authority?
• Traffic: Does the directory receive significant traffic from your target audience? (Use tools like SimilarWeb to check).
• Cost: Is the directory free or paid? If paid, is the cost justified by the potential benefits? (Consider your budget).

Remember, a listing in a high-authority, relevant directory can be worth more than dozens of listings in low-quality ones. Choose wisely.

Optimizing your directory listing for maximum impact

Once you've identified the right directories, it's time to craft a compelling listing that grabs attention and drives results. The goal? Convert casual browsers into interested leads.

Here’s how:

• Write a clear and concise description: Highlight your startup's unique value proposition in a way that resonates with your target audience.
• Use relevant keywords: Include keywords that your target audience is likely to search for when looking for solutions like yours. (But don’t stuff keywords.)
• Include a high-quality logo and screenshots: Visuals can make your listing stand out and provide a better understanding of your product or service.
• Add a call to action: Tell visitors what you want them to do next – visit your website, sign up for a free trial, or contact you for more information.

It can be useful to go through some of the examples of SaaS directories to see if you can pick up ideas to use in your profile, and what kinds of data they include. These can include categories, pricing, and short descriptions. This is a great way to catch the eye of the reader and grab the users.

Avoid generic language. Instead of saying "We're the best," show how you're the best. Provide specific examples, data points, or customer testimonials that support your claims. After all, 75,600 startups are based in the USA. So make sure your profile stands out from the noise.

Measuring the ROI of your directory submissions

Tracking the results of your directory submissions is crucial for understanding what works and optimizing your strategy over time. Don’t just submit and forget.

Start by setting up trackable links for each directory listing. Use UTM parameters to identify the source of traffic to your website. For example, you could use a URL like this: yourwebsite.com/?utm_source=directoryname&utm_medium=listing&utm_campaign=directorysubmissions.

Then, use analytics tools like Google Analytics to track key metrics such as:

• Website traffic: How much traffic are you receiving from each directory?
• Conversion rates: How many visitors from directories are converting into leads or customers?
• SEO ranking: Are your search engine rankings improving as a result of your directory submissions?

Analyze the data regularly. If a directory isn't driving traffic or conversions, consider removing your listing and focusing your efforts on more effective platforms. It's about refining your approach to achieve the best possible ROI.

What's next? Don't just exist; be visible

Take action today. Don't let your startup remain hidden in the digital noise. Start by identifying the most relevant directories for your niche. Craft a compelling listing that showcases your unique value. Track your results and refine your strategy over time.

And remember, visibility is just the first step. Once you've captured the attention of potential customers, investors, or partners, make sure you have a solid plan in place to nurture those relationships and convert them into tangible results.

General vs industry specific platforms

General platforms cast a wide net, while niche directories laser-focus on specific audiences. The latter can generate higher-quality leads.

Here's why:

• Relevance is king. An AI-specific directory might have lower traffic, but the visitors are pre-qualified leads actively seeking AI solutions. That is, they are already looking for the service.
• Higher conversion rates. Targeted visitors are more likely to convert into paying customers compared to general browsers who stumbled upon your listing. It's about quality over quantity, and not all visitors are created equal.

Consider the trade-off: a broad directory offers wider exposure, but a niche directory delivers targeted engagement. The key is matching your startup's offering with the directory's focus.

The trick? Don’t fall for vanity metrics. A surge in traffic from an irrelevant directory is useless if those visitors aren't converting. Focus on directories that align with your target audience and provide tangible value. Prioritize platforms where potential customers are actively searching for solutions like yours, even if it means reaching a smaller, more qualified audience.

Regional and geographic listings

Regional and geographic listings are all about hyper-local networking and tapping into regional growth incentives. These directories help you plant your flag in specific geographic hubs.

Consider this: your startup in Dubai is unlikely to get much traction from a directory focused solely on Silicon Valley. It's about finding the right watering hole.

• UAE & Nigeria: Ideal for tapping into emerging markets and accessing regional grants.
• Australia & Brazil: Great for establishing a local presence and networking with regional partners.

These regional directories often have close ties to local government initiatives and can offer access to funding opportunities or mentorship programs that are specifically targeted to startups in those areas. Local presence matters. The goal is getting noticed by the right people in the right places. By leveraging these platforms strategically, you can significantly boost your startup's visibility and credibility within your target region, laying the groundwork for long-term growth and success. It's about becoming a recognizable name in the local ecosystem.

Evaluating the top startup directories

Evaluating the top startup directories requires sifting through a crowded field. Think of it like panning for gold; most of what you'll find is just sand. The key is understanding what differentiates the high-value platforms from the noise.

Consider these players:

• Crunchbase: A behemoth in the startup data space.
• AngelList: Primarily known for connecting startups with investors.
• Product Hunt: A platform for discovering new products.
• Exploding Topics: Updates in real time.

The differences come down to features, pricing, and the community each one has cultivated.

Crunchbase

Crunchbase casts a wide net but suffers from data-staleness. Users report difficulty navigating the platform and find information is not updated frequently.

• Features: Extensive company profiles, funding data, and market analysis.
• Pricing: Offers a free basic plan, but more comprehensive data requires a paid subscription (Crunchbase Pro).
• Unique Selling Point (USP): Massive database and long-standing reputation, but the data can be stale.

AngelList

AngelList is great for fundraising, but it's not ideal for general visibility. Many founders find themselves inundated with investor outreach without a clear path to qualified leads.

• Features: Connects startups with investors, job seekers, and potential employees.
• Pricing: Primarily free for startups, but charges fees for certain services like fundraising.
• USP: Focus on early-stage fundraising and talent acquisition.

Product Hunt

Product Hunt is excellent for product launches, but its reach is limited. Your product gets a short burst of visibility, after which it fades into obscurity, as most users aren't continually browsing the site.

• Features: A platform for launching and discovering new products.
• Pricing: Free to list your product, but offers paid options for increased visibility.
• USP: Strong community of early adopters and tech enthusiasts.

Exploding Topics

Exploding Topics is excellent for spotting trends before they go mainstream. The real-time updates and categorization by growth velocity provide an edge, but the overall directory size isn't as vast as Crunchbase.

• Features: Identifies emerging trends and provides real-time updates on startup activity.
• Pricing: Varies depending on the level of access and data required.
• USP: Real-time updates and focus on emerging trends.

The common thread? Each platform has strengths and weaknesses. Your selection should align with your specific goals. Are you seeking funding, talent, or general visibility? Choose the platform that best serves your immediate needs.

If you're still figuring out where to begin, start with our guide to the best SaaS directories for 2025 growth for further insights.

Next up, let's dive into creating a profile that actually gets noticed.

Data heavy databases like Crunchbase

Platforms like Crunchbase serve as deep-dive databases for detailed company information and financial history. But be warned: that depth comes at a cost.

Consider it the encyclopedia of the startup world. Crunchbase is where you go to trace funding rounds, analyze investor portfolios, and understand the competitive landscape of established companies.

• It isn't just a directory, it's a data aggregator.
• Crunchbase is a financial data tracker.

The problem? The free version only gives you a tiny peek behind the curtain. To truly leverage its power, you'll need a paid subscription. Even then, users report that the data can be outdated or inaccurate (garbage in, garbage out). Still, platforms like Crunchbase serve as deep-dive databases for detailed company information and financial history.

But it's valuable for researching potential competitors and validating your market assumptions. Just don’t bet the farm on its data being 100% current. Now, let's shift our focus to how you can craft a profile that actually gets attention.

Trend spotting sites like Exploding Topics

Trend-spotting sites act as your radar in the startup universe, helping you find companies before they blow up. To find startups riding emerging trends before they go mainstream, trend-spotting tools like Exploding Topics provide live, filterable data.

These sites help you spot opportunities.

Exploding Topics stands out by providing an evolving map of the innovation economy. The platform goes beyond static listings by tracking emerging trends, bootstrapped startups, and even "micro trends" that haven't yet hit the radar of larger publications. Think of it as a cheat code for seeing what's next.

• Filters: Offers advanced ways to search for specific startups.
• Trends: Offers different ways to view trends.

What if you're not chasing hypergrowth? Maybe you're looking for bootstrapped startups operating under the radar. These platforms can surface founders who are building quietly, often with unique business models and highly engaged communities. These can be companies you can partner with.

How to choose the right directory for your goal

Choosing the right directory starts with a hard look at your goals. Are you after SEO juice or a flood of investor interest? Your answer dictates your path.

It’s about aligning your directory submission with your specific objectives. The biggest mistake I see founders make is submitting to every directory under the sun, hoping something sticks. That’s like throwing spaghetti at the wall.

• SEO-focused? Prioritize directories with high domain authority and relevance to your niche.
• Investor-focused? Target platforms frequented by venture capitalists and angel investors, like AngelList.

The bigger issue? Manually sifting through hundreds of directories to determine their relevance and authority takes forever. It's easily a 40+ hour research project. That's time most founders simply don't have.

We built LaunchDirectories to solve this bottleneck. Instead of wasting days on manual research and submissions, our platform automates the discovery and submission process. Our approach analyzes each directory for relevance to your niche. This ensures you get higher-quality backlinks that actually improve your domain rating. Consider it a launch strategy on autopilot.

Tips for optimizing your profile for visibility

Don't let a half-baked profile sabotage your startup's visibility. You’ve got seconds to make a first impression; a sloppy profile screams amateur.

Here's your optimization checklist.

• Keyword-Rich Bio: Stuffing keywords is out, strategic placement is in. Weave relevant keywords naturally into your description. Don't just list "AI, SaaS, Marketing." Instead, write, "We build AI-powered SaaS tools for growth-stage marketing teams."
• High-Quality Logo: Pixelated logos kill credibility. Invest in a professionally designed logo and use a high-resolution version across all platforms. Ensure it renders correctly on both desktop and mobile.
• Link to Specific Landing Pages: Don't just link to your homepage. Direct visitors to relevant landing pages. If you're listed in a CRM directory, link directly to your CRM product page. Track those clicks to see what's working.
• Keep Data Fresh: A "last updated" date from 2023 is a red flag. Regularly update your profile with the latest information, including funding rounds, product updates, and team expansions. Dead listings signal that you're either out of business or not serious.

The bigger issue is the time suck. Manual updates across dozens of directories can be brutal. The alternative? We built a feature into our platform that pings you when your profile data is stale. You get a notification to refresh key information, preventing those embarrassing "dead" listings from tanking your credibility. It's profile optimization on autopilot.

Measuring success after listing

Measuring success after listing hinges on your ability to track tangible outcomes, not just vanity metrics. The goal? A website traffic increase, lead generation, and an enhanced backlink profile.

Start by meticulously tracking referral data to prove that your directory listings are paying off.

Monitoring Referral Traffic

Use Google Analytics (GA4) to pinpoint exactly where your website traffic originates. Don't just assume a directory is working; prove it with data.

• Set up custom UTM parameters. Tag each directory link with a unique source and medium (e.g., ?utm_source=directoryname&utm_medium=listing). This allows GA4 to accurately attribute traffic.
• Analyze the referral data. Check the "Referrals" report in GA4 to see which directories send the most traffic and have the highest engagement metrics (e.g., bounce rate, pages per session). Discard the directories with low-quality traffic.
• Segment by conversion. Go beyond basic traffic analysis. See which directories generate visitors that convert into leads or paying customers. Set up conversion goals in GA4 and track the source of those conversions.

The bigger issue is, that most founders don't check GA4 regularly. I recommend setting a monthly reminder to analyze your referral data and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Attribution Modeling for Lead Generation

Referral data is not the full story; lead attribution reveals which directories are driving actual leads and sales.

• Implement lead attribution software. Use tools like HubSpot or Marketo to track the source of each lead generated on your website. This allows you to see which directories are generating the most high-quality leads.
• Use multi-touch attribution. Understand that the customer journey is complex. A lead might interact with multiple directories before converting. Multi-touch attribution models give credit to all touchpoints involved in the conversion process.
• Track offline conversions. Don't just focus on online leads. If you generate leads through phone calls or in-person meetings, make sure to manually attribute those leads to the appropriate directory.

But don’t ignore the long-term effects. A directory might not generate immediate leads, but it could contribute to brand awareness and influence future purchasing decisions.

Leveraging SEO Tools for Backlink Analysis

SEO tools unveil the backlink profile you are building and reveal the quality of your links.

• Use Ahrefs or Semrush. These tools allow you to see which directories are linking to your website and assess the quality of those backlinks.
• Monitor domain authority (DA). Track the DA of the directories that link to your site. Higher DA directories provide more valuable backlinks that improve your SEO.
• Disavow toxic backlinks. Identify and disavow backlinks from low-quality or spammy directories. These toxic backlinks can harm your SEO ranking.

The truth is, backlinks are not created equal. A single backlink from a high-authority directory can be worth more than hundreds of backlinks from low-quality sites. Focus on quality over quantity. We built our platform with SEO analysis in mind. Our team continuously analyzes various directories for domain authority, referral traffic, and industry relevance, ensuring you get listed in directories that provide the biggest SEO boost. This data allows our tool to focus on the directories that matter the most. This ensures a website traffic increase.

Now it’s time to analyze how the different types of platforms affect the overall campaign.

How AI is changing directory management

AI is rewriting the rules of directory management, moving it from a manual slog to an automated process. AI directories are emerging, powered by algorithms that can analyze and categorize startups with unprecedented speed and accuracy. For founders, this means faster, more efficient submissions and better ROI.

The biggest shift is the rise of automation. Each manual submission demands filling 15-20 fields, waiting for page loads, and battling CAPTCHAs. An automated submission service bypasses this tedious work. And the time savings are significant. Think of it as a 24/7 digital assistant.

AI-powered platforms help founders manage hundreds of listings efficiently without manual errors. It is easily a 40+ hour research project. We designed our platform to analyze each directory for relevance to your niche, submitting relevant details without the need for you to find and enter them on your own.

For a deeper look at navigating this shift, refer to our guide on AI directory submissions.

Don't get caught in the trap of "set it and forget it."

AI can optimize your profile for maximum impact. Our platform analyzes your profile data and suggests improvements. It monitors your listing performance, tracking referral traffic, conversion rates, and backlink quality. This data allows our tool to focus on the directories that matter the most. Consider it profile optimization on autopilot.

The catch?

• You need a clear picture of your ideal customer.
• You must know which industries or regions you are targeting.

Next, let's discuss how to choose the right directory for your goals.

Potential risks of directory submissions

Directory submissions aren't without their downsides, primarily involving time investment and the risk of damaging your SEO. It's not a "set it and forget it" strategy.

The real cost lies in the hours spent sifting through directories, crafting unique descriptions, and manually submitting your startup's information. The 75,600 other startups are competing for the same attention.

Time Investment

Manual submissions are a grind. The process of submitting to hundreds of directories can take days, if not weeks. But it’s not just the initial submission. You'll need to monitor your listings, update outdated information, and track your results.

The good news? AI is changing directory management. But remember, the earliest forms of business directories were print Yellow Pages, introduced by AT&T in 1886. Times have changed. And AI-powered platforms can help founders manage hundreds of listings efficiently without manual errors. The alternative? We built a feature into our platform that pings you when your profile data is stale.

The "Junk" Directory Trap

Not all directories are created equal. Submitting to low-quality sites can actually hurt your SEO, not help it. These "junk" directories often have low domain authority, spammy content, and can even be penalized by search engines.

The problem? Google sees these links as manipulative. They will penalize your site by lowering your search engine ranking, resulting in less organic traffic and ultimately, fewer customers. So do your homework.

Data Accuracy & Outdated Info

Outdated info erodes trust, fast. A listing with old contact information, an outdated product description, or a broken link damages your brand’s credibility.

Worse? Potential customers might assume your startup is defunct or not well-maintained. The solution? Regularly audit your directory listings. Verify that all information is accurate and up-to-date. This requires constant monitoring.

If you're looking to begin, check out our expert guide to the best SaaS directories for 2025 growth to ensure your company's data and information is up to date.

But we built a feature into our platform that pings you when your profile data is stale. You get a notification to refresh key information, preventing those embarrassing "dead" listings from tanking your credibility. Time for the final takeaway.

Quick checks that founders skip

Founders often skip crucial pre-submission checks, unknowingly torpedoing their directory efforts. It's more than just filling out a form; it's about ensuring your efforts actually pay off.

Consider this your final QA checklist:

• Domain Rating (DR): Never submit to a directory with a DR below 30. This metric, measured by tools like Ahrefs, indicates the site's authority. A low DR suggests a low-quality site that won't boost your SEO.
• "Do-follow" vs. "No-follow" Policy: Always verify the directory's submission policy regarding link attributes. "Do-follow" links pass SEO value, while "no-follow" links do not. Aim for directories with a "do-follow" policy to maximize backlink benefits. (But remember, a relevant no-follow link is better than a spammy do-follow one.)
• Submission Guidelines: Ignore these at your peril. Many directories have specific formatting requirements. Failing to adhere to these guidelines (image sizes, character counts, categories) can result in rejection.

These checks, which should take about 15 minutes, will help ensure that you don't just exist in another directory, but are set up for SEO. And remember to revisit our guide to SaaS growth through directory submissions to make sure you are well on your way to maximizing growth and expanding visibility.

So, take those steps.