What do I do? I have a unique idea in a fairly large industry that I believe is profitable (based on research and estimates) but the development could potentially take years and is outside of my skill level. I also don't know anybody who would be passionate enough to want to join me or wouldn't steal the idea... All advice would be greatly appreciated :)

@benleah thanks for your feedback! I'm currently finishing up a Web app and was planning on beginning work alone to see how far I could get and learn along the way, exactly as you had suggested.
I'll look into the Lean Methodology. I have a solid idea of where to go with this seeing as it's building off of an existing solution, just the approach is unique.

To build off an existing solution with a unique approach can be a good strategy. Make sure it is different enough to get users to switch and that you can reach your market.

@Jumpshot44 my day job is sales and marketing. Hopefully I can put that to good use in reaching the right audience.
Thanms for your input! 😊

The idea itself is worth zero dollars. Making it a reality is worth everything.

Not telling people is security through obscurity. I would recommend having people sign NDAs if you would like other to take a look.

If it is time critical, I would seek help. If you are confident no one else has a similar idea, take your time. But I would never operate on that assumption.

Develop an MVP and ask your customer (or figure out who your customer is first) if they would buy it. If they say no, ask what you would need to do to make that a yes.

Repeat until you have enough committed customers.