TSE · Engagement model
The Startup Engine
The Startup Engine is an operating partnership. We work across product, engineering and operations much as a co-founder would, and we earn through shared outcomes and equity.
How it works
A hands on build partner for early stage founders.
- Cost efficient
- You pay a small share of the cost. We earn more only if the company does well.
- Deep involvement
- Product, engineering, operations and sales planning, handled by one team.
- Scalable pods
- Pod size set by your stage and what needs doing.
- Integrated planning
- Sprints, a product backlog, milestones and reviews.
Eight lifecycle phases
We can join at any phase
Ideation
Pin down the problem and the customer.
Validation
Check people will pay before building much.
Launch
Release a first version and watch usage.
Growth
Put more behind what works.
Pivot
Change course based on what the data shows.
Turnaround
Steady the business and recover.
Expansion
New cities, markets and products.
Exit
Get ready for investors or a sale.
Best for
Is TSE right for you?
- Founders who want a partner to build alongside them
- Early stage companies without a full team
- Products that have to reach customers soon
- Companies in the middle of a pivot or turnaround
What you get
- A partner whose return depends on yours
- One team for product, tech and growth
- Help at any of the eight lifecycle phases
How is equity decided?
It depends on your stage, the scope and how much of the cost you cover. We agree it in writing before any work starts.
Can you join after we have launched?
Yes. We can come in at any of the eight lifecycle phases, from ideation to exit.
Start a conversation
Tell us what you are trying to build.
Share the problem in a short call. You leave with a clear view of the approach, the team and the cost.
A specialist replies within one working day. The first conversation is free.