14 years building data platforms. Zero sales experience. How do I get my first SME clients? (I will not promote)

Hello Everyone, I have around 14 years of experience in data engineering. I recently started a small company focused on helping SMEs build modern data platforms so they can actually use their data properly (instead of having it sitting in spreadsheets, outdated systems, or half-broken pipelines). I’m strong on the technical side designing and building solid, scalable data platforms is what I enjoy and what I am good at. The problem is everything else: sales, GTM, finding clients, talking about money. I have basically zero experience there. Right now I am struggling to get the first few clients. I’ve even started thinking about doing the first project(s) at a very low rate or free (in exchange for a word of mouth and testimonial) just to prove what we can do. Part of me feels this is necessary to get momentum. Another part of me feels it’s a bad idea. Has anyone here been in a similar situation (technical founder / small agency starting out)? What actually worked for you to get the first clients when you had strong delivery skills but weak sales skills? Open to any honest advice and feedback.