Jan Danecki is a software engineer with specializing in JVM (Java virtual machine) languages. After working for various companies, Jan transitioned to freelancing, specializing in web scraping, data processing, and developing custom solutions for businesses.
His expertise includes building SaaS applications and sophisticated data extraction tools. Jan found Apify while looking for a Facebook event scraper while working on an event aggregator website prototype. A deciding factor for him was Apify's free plan, which allowed him to get started easily and test without any investment.
I found Apify when we were prototyping our next product. I was looking for a way to read events from Facebook.
-- Jan Danecki
We caught up with Jan at Prague Crawl 2025
A unique approach to Actor development
Unlike many developers who rely solely on Apify's tools, Jan takes a different approach. He develops his scrapers locally using his own tools and IDE and pushes the finished product to Apify. This allows him to maintain control over his development process while using the Apify platform for distribution and monetization.
I'm using my own tools because I developed them for my needs and they're a better fit for my needs. I don't want to learn another library just for that.
-- Jan Danecki
Jan's strategy extends beyond creating Actors. He actively monitors Apify Store, using a nightly task to scan for trending Actors and popular pages. Apify’s ecosystem helps him identify new opportunities, improve his existing Actors, and gives him direction on where to focus his efforts.
Monetize your code
Building a community presence on Discord
One of Jan's standout qualities is his active presence on Apify's Discord. He uses the server to stay connected with Apify’s scraping community, share knowledge, and find new clients. This engagement has helped him build a great reputation and expand his network within the industry.
Apify as a portfolio builder
While Jan appreciates the Apify platform, he sees it as one part of his larger freelancing strategy. He uses Apify not just for direct income, but also as a portfolio to attract larger, custom projects.
I am actually using Apify build trust. I can show my customers that I've been working in the field, and you can see proof that I know how to do it.
-- Jan Danecki
This lets Jan showcase his skills in real-time, with working examples of his code. Potential clients can see his Actors in action, review their performance, and even test them out. It's an interactive portfolio that goes beyond code samples and project descriptions.
Adapting Apify to fit your workflow
Jan's experience highlights Apify's flexibility. It's not just a tool for building and automating web scrapers, but a platform that developers can adapt to their unique workflows and strategies. His story shows how Apify can fit into your own freelancing approach, helping you showcase your skills and find new opportunities in web scraping and automation.
Check out the video below if you'd like to learn how to build your own profitable scrapers and earn passive income:
