Founder FAQ
| Your questions answered

The Startup Factory Program (SFP) is designed to support early-stage startups by providing them with the necessary resources, mentorship, and technology solutions to accelerate their growth.

The program helps founders refine their business models, scale their operations, and access networks and funding opportunities.

The program is open to founders of technology-driven startups at any stage, though it is particularly suited for those in the idea, pre-seed, seed, or growth stages.

Applicants should have a strong business vision, a market-ready product or service, and a commitment to developing their startup.

• Mentorship: Access to a network of experienced industry leaders, investors, and technology experts.
• Business Strategy Development: Guidance on refining your business model, scaling your operations, and optimizing your go-to-market strategy.
• Technology Solutions: Access to cutting-edge technology tools, platforms, and consulting services tailored to your startup’s needs.
• Funding Support: Assistance with raising capital through investor introductions, pitch preparation, and fundraising strategies.
• Networking Opportunities: Exposure to other founders, investors, and potential partners through events and partnerships.
• Workshops and Training: Practical workshops and hands-on sessions covering topics like digital marketing, product development, sales strategies, and business operations.
• C-level Assembly: Support in assembling and structuring a strong C-level leadership team to guide your startup through its growth phases.
• Team Building: Guidance on building a cohesive, high-performing team, creating an efficient organizational structure, and hiring the right talent for key roles.
• Ongoing Support: Post-program support to ensure that you continue to grow and scale effectively.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must:

• Be the founder or co-founder of a technology-driven startup.
• Have an existing idea or product or service, or be in the early stages of product development.
• Have a clear business model and vision for growth.
• Be willing to commit to the full program duration and actively engage in program activities.
• Be open to mentorship and constructive feedback from experts in the field.

The program typically lasts 3 to 9 months, depending on the specific cohort. During this time, startups will engage in structured activities including workshops, mentorship sessions, pitch preparation, and business development initiatives.

The KnW Technology Consulting Startup Factory Program will be held primarily in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, at our partner locations, which include most of hitech Lab & Coworking Office Facilities and other top-tier business hubs.

However, for international participants or those unable to attend in person, we offer a hybrid participation model that allows founders to join the program remotely through virtual meetings, workshops, and mentoring sessions.

The KnW Startup Factory Program (SFP) framework supports a wide range of startups across various industries and growth stages. The program is designed to offer tailored guidance, mentorship, and resources to ensure startups thrive. Below are the types of startups supported by the framework:

1. Tech Startups

• Focus on cutting-edge technologies such as AI, blockchain, IoT, and big data.
• Examples: SaaS platforms, FinTech solutions, EdTech apps.

2. E-Commerce Startups

• Online marketplaces and platforms selling products or services.
• Examples: Niche product retailers, B2B marketplaces.

3. Micro Factory Automation Startups

• Startups specializing in automating small-scale production lines to optimize efficiency.
• Examples: Robotics solutions for micro-manufacturing, AI-driven production monitoring tools.

4. Green and Sustainability Startups

• Businesses focusing on eco-friendly solutions and renewable energy.
• Examples: Recycling technologies, sustainable fashion brands.

5. HealthTech and Wellness Startups

• Innovations in healthcare, fitness, and mental health.
• Examples: Telemedicine platforms, wearable health devices.

6. Creative and Digital Media Startups

• Content creation, marketing, and entertainment-driven ventures.
• Examples: Video production agencies, content marketing platforms.

7. Tangible Micro-Enterprise Startups

• Startups with tangible, small-scale business models offering products or services in niche markets.
• Examples: Artisan goods production, small-scale food processing, handmade products.

8. Social Impact Startups

• Enterprises addressing societal challenges or community needs.
• Examples: EdTech for rural education, platforms for marginalized groups.

9. Agritech Startups

• Businesses that bring innovation to agriculture and food production.
• Examples: Smart farming solutions, organic food marketplaces.

10. Lifestyle and Consumer Startups

• Products or services that enhance daily living experiences.
• Examples: Subscription boxes, on-demand services like home cleaning or food delivery.

11. Regional and Niche Startups

• Startups focused on solving hyper-local problems or serving specific markets.
• Examples: Language-specific e-learning platforms, localized delivery apps.

12. Startups with Innovative Business Models

• Any industry where the startup demonstrates unique approaches to traditional processes.
• Examples: Subscription models, gig economy platforms.

Program Flexibility

The KnW SFP framework is adaptable, supporting both:

• Pre-revenue startups (those in ideation or MVP stages).
• Early-stage startups (those looking to scale or refine their operations).

With a multi-stage structure—Pre-Seed Boot Camp, Startup Boot Camp, Accelerator Camp, and Incubator Camp—KnW ensures that startups in diverse domains, including micro factory automation and tangible micro-enterprises, receive the resources and support they need to succeed.

Yes, There may be a program fee for SFP Framework & Methodology, Lab & Co Working Office Facilities for participating in the Startup Factory Program during the Boot Camp and accordingly to the Stages timeline.

However, the fee may be rebated, discounted, sponsored, waived or subsidized and granted for high-potential startups by investors.

The program’s value far exceeds the cost, with access to resources, mentorship, and networking that can significantly accelerate your growth.

• Stage 1: Founder Registration
  Includes readiness check, startup mindset coaching, and access to expert mentors and resources.
• Stage 2: Pre-Seed Boot Camp
  Covers company formation, assembling a C-level team, and refining the business plan.

The total cost for Stage 1 + Stage 2 is RM 4,000 or USD900 or EURO900

• Tailored assessments and coaching sessions.
• Professional guidance for company formation.
• Business strategy development with market-specific insights.
• Access to expert mentors and resources.

Additional costs may apply for optional services like advanced mentorship or third-party legal and registration fees.

Yes, funding opportunities may be available at this level, but they typically depend on several factors:

1. Self-Funding or Bootstrapping

2. Grants and Government Initiatives

3. Micro-Investors or Angel Investors

4. Crowdfunding Platforms

5. Startup Loans

6. KnW’s Support

• KnW can provide guidance on accessing grants, identifying potential investors, or exploring alternative funding sources.
• While direct funding is not guaranteed at this stage, the program helps you prepare your startup to become fundable in later stages.

7. Suggestion: Pay Now and Claim Through Investors Later

• If you're unable to fund the initial cost upfront, because of you need more time to process (normaly 3-9 months) while bureaucratic and red tapes keep you startup lagging, we suggest you proceed with payment now and then claim the cost later through investors.
• This approach allows you to kick-start your participation in the program while seeking funding from investors. Many investors are open to covering early-stage expenses once they see your progress and potential.

Stage 1: Founder Registration (1 Month)

• Day 1 to 1 Month: Application submission and readiness check. refer 1a in timeline & roadmap below
• Day 1-4: Startup mindset coaching and self-assessment with expert mentors.
• Day 5: Feedback and tailored guidance for program alignment.

Stage 2: Pre-Seed Boot Camp (1-2 Weeks)

• Week 1:
  
• Company formation and legal setup.
• Selection and onboarding of C-level team members.
• Week 2:
  
• Business plan refinement with mentor feedback.
• Preparation for Stage 3 (Startup Boot Camp).

Total Duration: 1 Month-3 Weeks

The timeline may vary depending on individual readiness, external processes (e.g., legal registrations), and team coordination.

Yes, founders may be eligible for funding opportunities and subsidies based on program performance and eligibility criteria like Grant from investors later on, where pay first claim later format.

While the program does not require equity in exchange for participation,

certain funding opportunities or strategic partnerships introduced during the program might involve equity negotiations with investors.

This will be discussed on a case-by-case basis.

By the end of the program, you should expect to:

• Refine your business model with guidance from mentors.
• Have a clear growth strategy for the next 12–24 months.
• Be ready to pitch to investors with a polished pitch deck.
• Achieve tangible product improvements and customer traction.
• Build lasting business relationships with potential partners, investors, and collaborators.

Founders are selected based on the following criteria:

• The potential impact of the startup in its market or industry.
• The strength of the team and its ability to execute the vision.
• The clarity of the business model and growth strategy.
• The commitment and engagement level of the founder to the program.
• The startup's alignment with the program’s goals and focus areas.

C-level assembly refers to the process of building and structuring your startup's executive leadership team,

such as the CEO, CFO, CTO, COO, and other key roles. During the program, you will receive support in identifying the right candidates for these positions and structuring your team to effectively drive the startup’s growth and scale.

The program will provide guidance on:

• Defining the roles and responsibilities of your C-level executives.
• How to attract, retain, and incentivize top-tier talent.
• Ensuring that your leadership team has the right skill sets to complement each other and drive the company toward its strategic goals.

Effective team building is critical for the success of your startup. The Startup Factory Program will assist you in building a cohesive, high-performing team by focusing on:

• Leadership Development: Training and mentorship for founders and key team members to sharpen their leadership skills.
• Organizational Structure: Guidance on creating an organizational structure that supports collaboration, scalability, and growth.
• Recruitment and Talent Acquisition: Advice on how to attract the right talent for key positions, as well as how to retain them through culture-building and incentive strategies.
• Team Dynamics: Improving communication and collaboration within your team to ensure alignment and productivity.

This component ensures that you not only grow your business but do so with the right people in place, fostering a culture of success.

After the program concludes, founders will have ongoing access to the KnW Technology Consulting network and alumni resources.

The program aims to provide lasting value, so you can continue to receive support in the form of networking, follow-up mentorship, and future collaboration opportunities.

To apply, you need to complete the Founder Application Form available on our website.

Make sure to provide all necessary details about your startup, including your team’s background, business model, and goals.

We may also request additional documents, such as a pitch deck or business plan, to better understand your venture.

Here’s the detailed process for payment:

1. Accepted Payment Methods

• Bank Transfer: Payment can be made via local or international bank transfer to the designated account.
• Credit/Debit Card: Secure online payment options may be available via the official KnW Technology Consulting platform.
• E-Wallets: In some cases, payments can be made via popular e-wallet platforms (subject to availability).
• PayPal: International participants can use PayPal for secure and convenient transactions.
• Wise (Formerly TransferWise): International participants can use Wise for fast, low-cost cross-border payments.

Cryptocurrency Payments

• Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT: KnW Technology Consulting accepts payments in cryptocurrency.
• After selecting this method, you will receive a wallet address and payment instructions. Ensure the transfer is accurate to avoid delays.

2. Payment Details

Once you complete the registration process, you will receive an official invoice with the following information:

• Bank Name and Account Number: For bank transfer payments.
• Payment Gateway Link: For online card payments.
• Recipient Name: Payments must be made to KnW Technology Consulting or the assigned program account (details provided on the invoice).

3. Whom Do I Pay?

• The payment should be made directly to KnW Technology Consulting, the official organizer of the Startup Factory Program (SFP).
• Ensure that the account name matches the details provided on the official invoice to avoid scams or fraud.

4. How to Confirm Your Payment?

• After making the payment, send proof of payment (e.g., transaction receipt) to the KnW SFP team via email or the provided communication channel.
• The team will verify your payment and confirm your enrollment in the program.

5. Need Assistance?

If you have questions or need help with the payment process:

• Contact the KnW SFP support team via email or phone (details available on the official website).
• Request additional guidance on preferred payment methods for your region if needed.

Note: Always ensure payments are made to the official account or payment portal specified by KnW Technology Consulting to guarantee security and authenticity.

If your application is successful, you will be invited for a formal interview or pitch session where we will evaluate your business further.

If selected, you’ll be formally enrolled in the program and provided with an onboarding package, which includes details on program structure, timeline, and expectations.

Yes, the program is open to startups from ASEAN or Southeast Asia and beyond,

though you must be willing to commit to remote participation or travel to Malaysia for certain parts of the program (if required).

We offer flexible participation options for founders based in other regions.

Yes, the KnW Startup Factory Program (SFP) is open to startups from ASEAN, Southeast Asia, and beyond. We welcome diverse entrepreneurs and startups, regardless of their geographical location, as long as they meet the program’s eligibility criteria and are committed to participating.

Steps to Participate

1. Check Your Eligibility

• The program is designed for startups at different stages, including ideation, pre-revenue, and early-stage growth.
• Startups from various industries, including tech, micro-enterprises, creative media, and green sustainability, are encouraged to apply.

2. Register for the Program

• Visit the KnW Technology Consulting website or contact the SFP team or click the apply & enroll now! button down below to complete the registration form.
• Provide details about your startup, including your business idea, team members, and industry focus.

3. Complete Stage 1 (Founder Registration)

• Pay the registration fee of RM 4,000 (USD 900 / EURO 900) to enroll in the program.
• Participate in the Startup Mindset coaching session and readiness check to prepare for the next stage.

4. Engage in the Pre-Seed Boot Camp (Stage 2)

• During this stage, you will work on company formation, assembling a C-level team, and refining your business plan.
• This stage is crucial for preparing your startup for market entry and securing future funding.

5. Remote or In-Person Participation

• If you are located outside Malaysia or ASEAN, the program offers flexible participation options, including online sessions and virtual mentorship.
• Local participants can attend in-person workshops and networking events for a more immersive experience.

Why Join the SFP Program?

1. Comprehensive Support: Tailored guidance through each stage of your startup’s development, from ideation to scaling.
2. Regional and Global Access: Expand your network within ASEAN and beyond, connecting with investors, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs.
3. Flexible Learning Modes: Participate remotely or in person, making it accessible regardless of your location.

For more information or assistance, contact the SFP team or visit our official website and click the apply & enroll now! button down below to complete the registration form and starts enroll and fill in the founder registration form to begin your entrepreneurial journey!

• Self-Assessment: Complete a founder readiness check and consult with SFP mentors to align your startup goals with Malaysia’s market.
• Legal Setup: Register a company with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). For foreign ownership, ensure compliance with industry-specific capital and licensing requirements.
• Funding Readiness: Secure personal funds or external funding to meet operational needs and regulatory requirements.
• Cultural Preparation: Participate in SFP coaching to understand local business practices and market dynamics.
• Networking: Engage with Malaysia’s startup ecosystem through SFP workshops and events.

• Business plan aligned with SFP guidance.
• Proof of funds (e.g., bank statements).
• Passport and travel documents.
• Company incorporation papers
• Recommendation letters from SFP mentors or affiliates.

• Malaysia Tech Entrepreneur Program (MTEP): A 1- to 5-year visa for tech entrepreneurs. Requires innovative business ideas, proof of funds (RM 50,000+), and endorsement from agencies like MDEC.
• Employment Pass (EP): For founders in key roles, requiring company registration and a minimum salary threshold.
• Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H): Long-term residency with financial requirements, suitable for those combining entrepreneurship with living in Malaysia.
• Single Entry Business Visa 30 - 90 days Short-term visitors for meetings, eventsMeetings, networking, attending trade fairs
• Multiple Entry Business Visa (MEV) 3 months - 1 year Frequent travelers Repeated business visits (no work)
• Professional Visit Pass (PVP) 6 - 12 months Foreign professionals (non-employees) Consultancy, project-based work

• Endorsement: SFP provides recommendations for visa applications like MTEP.
• Workshops: Specialized sessions on legal, financial, and market readiness.
• Partnerships: Support in forming collaborations with local stakeholders to strengthen your business setup.

Malaysia offers a diverse, growing market with access to regional opportunities in Southeast Asia. Through SFP, foreign founders gain tailored support to navigate legal, cultural, and business landscapes effectively.

Yes! One of the key benefits of the program is helping startups prepare for and connect with potential investors.

You will receive guidance on refining your pitch, preparing financial documents, and identifying the right investors for your business.

There will also be opportunities to pitch to investors during the program.

The program requires a full-time commitment from the founders.

You should expect to dedicate between minimum 15-30 hours per week on activities such as workshops, mentor meetings, pitch preparation, and business development.

That is why the Coworking Offices Facilities is open 24/7.

Active participation will significantly enhance the benefits you gain from the program.

You can expect to receive:

• Weekly mentor check-ins to track progress and receive feedback.
• Workshops on topics such as product development, marketing, sales, and funding.
• Access to a network of experts, investors, and partners for business development opportunities.
• Personalized guidance on business strategy, operations, and scaling.

Yes! If you’re not selected in the current cohort, you can always reapply for future cohorts.

We encourage you to continue refining your business and taking advantage of the resources available to you. We value persistence and progress.

After you submit your application, our team will review your form and may reach out for further information or an interview.

If selected, you will be notified and provided with next steps. The program's intake process typically takes a few weeks from the application deadline.

The entire intake process typically takes 4 weeks from the application deadline.

• Week 1: Application submission and Founder Readiness Check.
• Week 2: Evaluation and shortlisting of candidates.
• Week 3: Interviews or pitch sessions for shortlisted applicants.
• Week 4: Notification of selection and onboarding.

Selected participants receive program schedules, access to pre-program materials, and begin mindset coaching to prepare for the program.

Yes, KnW SFP has a clear policy to ensure fairness to all applicants:

1. Refund Policy:
   
• If your application is not successful, your initial payment (RM 4,000 / USD 900 / EUR 900) will be refunded in full within 14 working days.
2. Processing Timeline:
   
• Refunds will be processed promptly, with notifications sent to confirm the status of your refund.
3. Method of Refund:
   
• Refunds will be issued through the same payment method used for the initial transaction (e.g., bank transfer, Wise, cryptocurrency, etc.).
4. Additional Support:
   
• You will be provided feedback on your application and guidance on how to improve your readiness for future opportunities.

Note: KnW SFP is committed to maintaining transparency and ensuring that startups feel supported throughout the application process.

Yes, the SFP team provides feedback on your application and readiness to help you improve for future opportunities.

The program starts shortly after onboarding, with a detailed schedule shared during the final notification phase.

Yes, it is possible for some startups to enter the Accelerator Camp directly, but this typically applies to startups that meet specific criteria. Here's an overview of the process and steps to enter the Accelerator Camp straight away:

Eligibility Criteria for Direct Entry into the Accelerator Camp:

To qualify for direct entry into the Accelerator Camp, startups generally need to demonstrate the following:

1. Product-Market Fit:
• You should have a market-ready product or service with a proven demand. This could include early customer acquisition, feedback, and some level of traction or validation.
2. Early Revenue or Traction:
• Having an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) with customers or initial sales is usually necessary. You should show that your startup has gained some traction and is generating revenue or leads.
3. Experienced Team:
• A well-rounded, committed team with complementary skill sets in place, including expertise in product development, marketing, sales, and operations.
4. Fundraising Readiness:
• Startups should be ready for investment or have already secured initial seed funding. This indicates that you are ready to scale with the help of external capital.
5. Scalability:
• Your business model should demonstrate clear potential for growth. This includes having a scalable solution with a well-defined target market.

Direct entry into the Accelerator Camp is ideal for startups that are past the MVP stage, have early revenue, and are looking to scale quickly. If your startup is still in the early phases of product development or market validation, it may benefit from going through Pre-Seed Boot Camp or Startup Boot Camp to refine its foundation before moving into the accelerator.

In short, the process for entering the Accelerator Camp directly involves application, pitching, due diligence, and onboarding.

Startups must demonstrate that they are ready to scale and secure investment through established proof points like product-market fit, traction, and a capable team.

• Immediate Scaling Support: By entering the accelerator directly, your startup can immediately leverage the accelerator's resources to scale its operations quickly.
• Mentorship from Industry Experts: You will be paired with experienced mentors who have expertise in growing businesses similar to yours.
• Investment Opportunities: Accelerators often have established networks of investors. You'll get opportunities to pitch directly to them and secure funding.
• Tailored Growth Plan: The accelerator will provide a tailored roadmap for your startup to reach the next phase of growth, whether that’s securing a Series A investment, expanding into new markets, or scaling operations.

The KnW Startup Factory Program (SFP) offers comprehensive support to help startups prepare for and maximize the impact of Demo Day. This includes pitch development, investor matchmaking, and event organization to showcase your startup to potential investors, partners, and other stakeholders. Below is an outline of how KnW SFP supports Demo Day:

Benefits of KnW SFP Demo Day

• Increased Visibility: Showcase your startup to a wide range of investors, partners, and stakeholders.
• Real-Time Feedback: Gain valuable insights and questions from investors to refine your business model.
• Funding Opportunities: Maximize your chances of securing seed or growth-stage funding.
• Networking: Build connections with potential collaborators, advisors, and industry leaders.

Recommendation:
KnW SFP’s Demo Day is designed to empower startups with the tools, resources, and exposure needed to secure funding and strategic partnerships. Startups are encouraged to leverage this platform to highlight their growth potential and forge meaningful connections with investors and industry leaders.

KnW SFP provides guidance and resources to help startups plan and execute a variety of exit strategies. These strategies are tailored to your business model, industry, and long-term goals. Below are some of the key exit strategies supported by the program:

1. Acquisition or Mergers

• Details: Selling your startup to a larger company or merging with another business.
• Support: KnW helps identify potential acquirers, negotiates favorable terms, and prepares your startup for a smooth acquisition.
• Best For: Startups with innovative technology, a strong customer base, or unique intellectual property (IP).

2. Initial Public Offering (IPO)

• Details: Offering shares of your company to the public through a stock exchange.
• Support: KnW provides mentorship on IPO readiness, including financial auditing, compliance, and market positioning.
• Best For: Startups with significant growth, robust revenue streams, and a scalable business model.

3. Management Buyout (MBO)

• Details: Selling your business to your existing management team.
• Support: KnW guides founders through structuring MBO deals and ensuring a smooth transition of ownership.
• Best For: Founders looking for an internal, less disruptive exit strategy.

4. Licensing or Franchising

• Details: Generating revenue by licensing your technology, brand, or business model to others.
• Support: KnW offers expertise in setting up licensing agreements and franchising frameworks.
• Best For: Startups with proven business models and scalable systems.

5. Secondary Sale

• Details: Selling your shares to private investors or venture capitalists.
• Support: KnW connects you with a network of investors and assists in negotiations for secondary sales.
• Best For: Founders looking to cash out without selling the entire company.

6. Strategic Partnerships

• Details: Entering a long-term partnership where a larger company invests or takes control of your business operations.
• Support: KnW facilitates introductions to strategic partners and negotiates mutually beneficial terms.
• Best For: Startups aiming to leverage the resources and expertise of an established partner.

7. Wind Down and Liquidation

• Details: Closing your business and selling off assets.
• Support: While not the ideal outcome, KnW provides guidance on how to manage a structured and efficient wind-down process.
• Best For: Startups unable to achieve profitability or secure sustainable growth.

8. Spin-Offs or Subsidiary Creation

• Details: Dividing a segment of your business into an independent entity to focus on a specific product or market.
• Support: KnW assists in creating operational and legal structures for spin-offs or subsidiaries.
• Best For: Startups with diverse offerings that can be scaled independently.

Why Exit Strategy Planning Matters

• Maximize Value: A well-executed exit strategy ensures you receive the maximum value for your efforts.
• Prepare for Transition: KnW helps founders plan for smooth leadership transitions.
• Investors’ Confidence: Having a clear exit strategy increases investor confidence and attracts funding.

Recommendation: KnW SFP works closely with you to identify the most suitable exit strategy, align it with your goals, and execute it effectively to ensure long-term success for you and your stakeholders.

Yes, the KnW Startup Factory Program (SFP) supports ICOs (Initial Coin Offerings) as a potential exit strategy for startups operating in blockchain, cryptocurrency, or related technology domains. However, ICOs require careful planning, compliance, and execution. Here’s how KnW SFP assists with ICOs:

Recommendation

KnW SFP encourages startups interested in ICOs to focus on compliance, transparency, and delivering real value to investors. While ICOs can be a lucrative strategy, they require careful execution to avoid legal and reputational risks.

Note: ICOs are best suited for startups in the blockchain or decentralized technology space. If this aligns with your business, KnW SFP can help you prepare for a successful ICO.

Yes, the KnW Startup Factory Program (SFP) supports SPACs (Special Purpose Acquisition Companies) as a viable exit strategy for eligible startups. SPACs are increasingly popular for startups seeking to go public through a streamlined and efficient process. KnW SFP provides guidance and resources to help you navigate the SPAC process successfully.

If you have any further questions or need more information about the program, feel free to reach out to us by clicking Schedule Appointment or Request Zoom Meeting button below!

You can also email to us at sfp.reformist500@passinbox.com