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Startup Founder Agreement Template for Singapore

A Startup Founder Agreement under Singapore law is a comprehensive legal document that establishes the relationship between co-founders of a startup company. It outlines equity distribution, roles and responsibilities, decision-making processes, and intellectual property rights. The agreement is structured according to Singapore's Companies Act and related legislation, incorporating specific requirements for company formation and governance in the Singapore jurisdiction. It serves as a foundational document that helps prevent future disputes and provides clear guidelines for the company's operation and potential exit scenarios.

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What is a Startup Founder Agreement?

The Startup Founder Agreement is essential when two or more individuals come together to establish a startup in Singapore. This foundational document is crucial in the early stages of company formation, typically used before or during company incorporation. It addresses key aspects such as equity distribution, vesting schedules, roles and responsibilities, decision-making processes, and intellectual property rights. The agreement is particularly important in the Singapore startup ecosystem, where clear governance structures and compliance with local regulations are essential. It helps prevent future disputes by establishing clear guidelines and expectations among founders from the outset.

What sections should be included in a Startup Founder Agreement?

1. Parties: Identification and details of all founding members

2. Background: Context of the startup formation and founders' relationship

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the agreement

4. Roles and Responsibilities: Detailed description of each founder's duties and commitments

5. Equity Distribution: Initial shareholding structure and vesting schedules

6. Decision Making: Voting rights and major decision procedures

7. Intellectual Property: Assignment and ownership of IP rights

8. Confidentiality: Protection of company and founder confidential information

9. Exit Provisions: Procedures for founder departure or company sale

What sections are optional to include in a Startup Founder Agreement?

1. Employment Terms: Terms of founders' employment if also serving as employees - use when founders are also employees of the company

2. Non-Compete: Restrictions on competitive activities - use when protecting against founder competition is crucial

3. Capital Contribution: Details of initial and future capital investments - use when founders are making initial capital contributions

4. Dispute Resolution: Specific procedures for resolving conflicts - use when standard dispute resolution mechanisms need modification

What schedules should be included in a Startup Founder Agreement?

1. Schedule 1: Share Vesting Schedule: Detailed breakdown of share vesting timelines and conditions

2. Schedule 2: IP Schedule: List of existing IP brought into the company by founders

3. Schedule 3: Business Plan: Initial business plan and milestones

4. Schedule 4: Capitalization Table: Detailed breakdown of shareholding structure

5. Appendix A: Form of Deed of Adherence: Template for new founders or shareholders to join

6. Appendix B: Key Performance Indicators: Metrics for evaluating founder performance

Authors

Alex Denne

Head of Growth (Open Source Law) @ Ƶ | 3 x UCL-Certified in Contract Law & Drafting | 4+ Years Managing 1M+ Legal Documents

Jurisdiction

Singapore

Publisher

Ƶ

Document Type

Founders Agreement

Cost

Free to use

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