Edtech's Real Buyers, Startup Law Traps and Why Founders Need Better Equity Deals - E593

Jeremy Au breaks down the hidden risks in Southeast Asia’s edtech sector and early-stage startup law. He explains why edtech often fails to scale, how founder disputes emerge without early agreements, and why choosing the right jurisdiction like Singapore matters for survival. From investor alignment to taxation nightmares, this episode guides founders through the hard truths of building legally sound and scalable ventures.

01:00 Misaligned Edtech Incentives: “Kids use it. Parents, schools, or governments buy it.” Jeremy explains how edtech startups suffer from a split between the user and the payer, complicating both growth and retention.

03:49 Passion Subsidy and Investor Challenges: The sector attracts too many well-intentioned builders, creating a surplus of talent and capital but fewer underpriced investment opportunities.

10:57 Founder Agreements and Equity Clarity: Jeremy outlines how early documentation, even in a simple Google Doc, can prevent future equity disputes, especially when teams evolve before incorporation.

12:37 Tax Burden in the Philippines: He warns that taxing startups on gross revenue instead of profit creates startup-hostile environments and pushes founders to incorporate in more favorable places like Singapore.

Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/edtech-roadblocks

Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com

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