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Tech Startup Structure

Structure Your Tech Startup for Investment

Most VC-backed tech startups use a dual-entity structure: a Delaware C-Corp or LLC as the US holding entity for investors, and a Singapore Pte Ltd for Asia-Pacific operations. Here is how to build it before your first raise.

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Who this is for

  • Pre-seed and seed-stage founders planning to raise from US or Singapore-based VCs
  • Technical co-founders who need a clean cap table structure from day one
  • Startups accepted into YC, Antler, or other accelerators that require a US or SG entity
  • Founders building for Asian markets who want a Singapore base with a US investor entry point
  • Solo technical founders creating an MVP who want the right structure before raising
Pricing

Service fee covers both formations. Delaware state fee (~$90 LLC / ~$89 Corp) and Singapore ACRA fees (S$315) are billed separately by the authorities.

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What's included

How it works

Step 1

Structure review

We review your funding timeline, investor geography, and team location to recommend the right US + Singapore combination.

Step 2

Delaware formation

Delaware LLC or C-Corp filed - typically approved within 24 hours for standard processing.

Step 3

Singapore formation

Singapore Pte Ltd registered via ACRA - typically 1–3 business days once documents are ready.

Step 4

Documents and cap table setup

Full incorporation pack for both entities delivered, with SAFE/note structure guidance and investor-ready document checklist.

Frequently asked questions

Delaware LLC or C-Corp for a startup - which is better?

C-Corps are required for institutional VC investment (Series A+), as most US venture funds cannot invest in LLCs due to their limited partnership structure. At pre-seed stage, an LLC is simpler and cheaper to run. YC and many angel SAFEs work with both. If you know you are targeting institutional VC within 18 months, incorporate as a C-Corp from the start to avoid a costly conversion.

Why do Singapore VCs prefer a Singapore Pte Ltd?

Singapore-based VCs (including Sequoia SEA, Golden Gate Ventures, and government-linked funds) typically require investee companies to be incorporated in Singapore for regulatory and fund mandate reasons. The Singapore Startup Tax Exemption also provides significant relief on the first S$200,000 of chargeable income for the first three years.

How does the dual-entity structure work in practice?

The Delaware entity is the parent/holding company that US investors invest into. The Singapore Pte Ltd is the operating subsidiary that holds Singapore-based employees, contracts, and local IP. The Delaware entity owns shares in the Singapore entity. This structure is common among South-East Asian startups targeting both US and regional VCs.

What is the Singapore Startup Tax Exemption?

New Singapore companies that meet certain criteria receive a 75% exemption on the first S$100,000 of chargeable income and a 50% exemption on the next S$100,000 for each of their first three years of assessment. The exemption is subject to conditions including that the company is not an investment holding company and is a tax resident of Singapore.

Do I need a local Singapore director?

Yes. Singapore law requires at least one director who is ordinarily resident in Singapore (a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or Employment Pass/EntrePass holder). We can connect you with a nominee director service for the initial period - you should plan to add a resident director (e.g. a Singapore-based co-founder or employee) as the business grows.

Ready to get started?

Fixed price, real-time tracking, and expert handling, from first document to final approval.

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