Founder Term & Condition

These Terms & Conditions ("Terms") govern participation in the Startup Factory Program ("SFP" or "Program") offered by KNW Technology Consulting ("KNW," "we," "us," or "our").

The Program is designed as a comprehensive bootcamp and accelerator for early-stage startups, focusing on digital transformation, Industry 4.0 technologies (e.g., AI, IoT, RPA), and micro-enterprise automation.

By applying to, enrolling in, or participating in the Program, you ("Participant," "you," or "your") agree to be bound by these Terms. If you are entering into these Terms on behalf of a company or other legal entity, you represent that you have the authority to bind such entity to these Terms.

These Terms incorporate by reference any Program-specific details from our promotional materials, such as those described on our website (e.g., sfp-promotion page), and may be updated periodically. We will notify Participants of material changes via email or the Program portal. Your continued participation constitutes acceptance of such updates.

1. Program Overview and Eligibility

1.1 Program Description: The SFP is a 3-9 month cohort-based program based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, targeting founders and teams from ideation to pre-revenue and early growth stages. It includes workshops, one-on-one mentorship, pitch preparation, business development sessions, and access to networks for intergenerational collaboration (e.g., Veterans, Gen X, Y, Z). The Program supports diverse industries, including tech, creative media, green sustainability, and operational efficiency tools, with a focus on exit strategies like acquisitions or mergers. Alumni receive ongoing access to resources post-Program.

1.2 Eligibility: To participate, you must:

Be at least 18 years of age (or the age of majority in your jurisdiction).

Be a founder, co-founder, or key team member of an early-stage startup (no minimum viable product required, but traction is preferred).

Commit to full participation in Program activities (e.g., attending at least 80% of sessions).

Not be an employee or affiliate of a direct competitor to KNW.

Reside in or be willing to relocate temporarily to Malaysia for in-person elements (hybrid options may be available).

Applications are reviewed holistically, considering innovation potential, team diversity, and alignment with Program themes. KNW reserves the right to reject any application at its sole discretion. False information in applications may result in immediate termination.

2. Application and Enrollment

2.1 Application Process: Submit applications via our website (e.g., sfp-promotion page) or designated portal. Required materials include a pitch deck, team bios, and a problem-solution overview. Selection notifications occur within 4-6 weeks.

2.2 Enrollment: Upon acceptance, you must sign these Terms, pay any applicable fees (see Section 3), and complete onboarding (e.g., NDA if required). Enrollment is non-transferable.

3. Fees and Payment

3.1 Program Fees: The Program may involve fees for premium tracks (e.g., $5,000-$15,000 USD for full access, covering materials and events; basic tracks may be subsidized or free). Exact fees are outlined in your acceptance offer. No refunds after the first 14 days of the Program.

3.2 Payment Terms: Fees are due within 14 days of acceptance via bank transfer, credit card, or invoice. Late payments incur a 1.5% monthly interest. KNW may terminate participation for non-payment.

3.3 Additional Costs: Participants cover travel, accommodation, and incidental expenses. Scholarships or waivers may be available for underrepresented founders—apply separately.

4. Program Obligations and Participation

4.1 Your Commitments: You agree to:

Actively engage in all assigned activities, milestones, and feedback sessions.

Collaborate respectfully with mentors, peers, and KNW staff.

Use Program resources solely for legitimate business purposes.

Maintain confidentiality of shared information (see Section 7).

4.2 KNW Commitments: We will provide:

Structured curriculum, expert mentorship (10+ hours per participant), and access to tools/partners.

Demo Day or investor intros for qualifying teams.

No guarantee of funding, success, or outcomes—results depend on your execution.

4.3 Attendance and Conduct: Unexcused absences exceeding 20% may lead to dismissal. We expect professional conduct; violations (e.g., harassment, IP infringement) result in immediate removal without refund.

5. Intellectual Property Rights

5.1 Your IP: You retain ownership of all pre-existing intellectual property ("IP") brought into the Program. Any new IP developed during the Program (e.g., prototypes, code) is owned by you or your startup, subject to any collaborative licenses granted to co-participants.

5.2 KNW IP: All Program materials, curricula, templates, and tools provided by KNW remain our exclusive property. You receive a limited, non-exclusive, revocable license for Program duration only. No reproduction or commercial use without written consent.

5.3 Joint IP: For collaborative projects, IP rights will be negotiated via a separate agreement, typically shared proportionally among contributors. KNW claims no equity in your startup unless explicitly agreed (e.g., in exchange for direct investment, which is optional and not standard).

5.4 Feedback and Improvements: Any unsolicited feedback you provide to KNW becomes our property without compensation.

6. Confidentiality

6.1 Mutual NDA: Both parties agree to keep confidential all non-public information disclosed during the Program (e.g., business plans, trade secrets). This obligation survives termination for 3 years.

6.2 Exceptions: Information is not confidential if publicly known, independently developed, or required by law to disclose.

7. Representations and Warranties

7.1 By You: You represent that your participation does not violate third-party rights, laws, or agreements. Your startup complies with applicable regulations (e.g., data privacy under GDPR/PDPA).

7.2 By KNW: We warrant that the Program will be delivered in a professional manner consistent with industry standards. EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY STATED, THE PROGRAM IS PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

8. Limitation of Liability

8.1 Cap on Liability: To the fullest extent permitted by law, KNW's total liability shall not exceed the fees paid by you. We are not liable for indirect, consequential, or punitive damages (e.g., lost profits, business interruption).

8.2 Indemnification: You agree to indemnify KNW against claims arising from your misuse of Program resources or IP violations.

9. Termination

9.1 By KNW: We may terminate your participation immediately for breach (e.g., non-payment, misconduct) or if the Program is canceled (e.g., due to force majeure like pandemics).

9.2 By You: You may withdraw with 30 days' notice, forfeiting remaining benefits but eligible for partial refunds if pre-paid.

9.3 Effects of Termination: Upon termination, access to resources ends, but confidentiality obligations persist. No refunds for partial completion unless specified.

10. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

10.1 Governing Law: These Terms are governed by the laws of Malaysia, without regard to conflict of laws principles. Disputes shall be resolved exclusively in the courts of Kuala Lumpur.

10.2 Arbitration: For claims under $50,000 USD, binding arbitration under the Malaysian Institute of Arbitrators rules applies.

11. Miscellaneous

11.1 Entire Agreement: These Terms constitute the full agreement, superseding prior discussions. No amendments except in writing signed by both parties.

11.2 Severability: If any provision is invalid, the remainder remains enforceable.

11.3 Force Majeure: Neither party is liable for delays due to events beyond control (e.g., natural disasters, government actions).

11.4 Contact: Questions? Email info@knw-technology-consulting.com or visit https://knw-technology-consulting.b12sites.com/sfp-tc.

By participating, you acknowledge reading, understanding, and agreeing to these Terms. KNW Technology Consulting reserves the right to modify the Program at any time.

KNW Technology Consulting

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

November 3, 2025