5 Sleek Tips for Startups

Make sure that there is a real market for what you are doing

Scout the market and secure your first buyer before enteringKnow what problem you are solving and why, and have real customers ready to pay for your solution. Tap on programmes such as IMDA’s Open Innovation Platform for business matching between tech solutions to problem statements.

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4Be on the same pageWork with shareholders who are clear on what they are getting into. Build healthy relationships through open alignment of product development, business models and risk expectations. Be in the right place for the right kind of capital. Singapore leads in investment deals in the region. In 2019, Singapore accounted for US$81.2B out of US$100.4B of M&A, PE and VC investments in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia.

Seek seasoned partnersSeasoned investors offer valuable mentorship and key connections to networks in new markets. Martin Crawford, former CEO of corporate services giant Vistra, isa key investor in Sleek, bringing with him industry-specific advice and connections.

Partner with investors who offer more than money

2 Build a solid team for exponential growth

Prioritise quality over quantityYou cannot afford non-performance. Pay for talent and exponential value. Three quality hires can create 30 times the value of average employees.

Choose the right locationSingapore’s pool of strong technical talent makes it a breeze to find and attract the right people for your company. Programmes like Tech@SG help you to quickly and confidently bring in critical talent you need to grow and scale your business.

Win over your employeesTo compete with MNCs for talent, demonstrate your commitment to grow talent quickly for high performance. Creating a vibrant and fast-growing business environment helps you to attract top talent even if you are a startup.

3Prioritise simplicity and capabilitySmall and young businesses do not need complex structures for the sake of superficial company valuation.

Manage good relations with your cofoundersHave a cofounder-vesting schedule. Divorce happens more often than you think, but the best divorces make for happier parents. Decide on healthy mechanisms of stock options and equity. Anticipate and plan for changes.

Value governance and clear organisational structures

Founded in May 2017, Singapore-based Sleek boasts over 2,000 clients from all over the world, and is revolutionising the corporate services industry and making the lives of entrepreneurs and investors easier through Sleek’s fully digital incorporation services.

CEO and Co-Founder Mr Julien Labruyere shares key insights on how to build and scale a successful startup.

5Show your stake and confidence in your companyIt is not the quantity of investment, but your personal sacrifice of money, time and energy. Believe in what you are selling.

Have skin in the game