Hello, I am new to sponge but I get how it works an everything. I want to ask for any recommended plugins to have on a Pixelmon server that are absolutely needed. Also, if you can think of anything unique I could add or hire somebody to do work would be great. I am not asking for staff so please no comments about that. Thanks, really needing your guys help right now. 
You’d want to use a permission plugin as sponge doesn’t provide permission management by itself. I also suggest a world management/Portal plugin if you’re planning to expand the world to multiple dimensions. A plugin to color the chat might also be helpful (have a look at the usual “essential” like plugins).
That should do it for a good start. Everything else should come later, when you’re setup and running the basics
Thanks a bunch Tzk, sounds good. I think what I will do is what you said, build everything needed on the server and worry about the other cool perks later.