Lessons from Bootstrapping to 100,000 Users

Practical, raw lessons learned from bootstrapping Engage AI from a concept to a global platform with 100,000 users.

​Building an AI-First business requires a deep understanding of user discovery, adoption and product-led growth.

​Jason shares the practical, raw lessons learned from bootstrapping Engage AI from a concept to a global platform with 100,000 users.

​This session provides a practical framework and actionable strategies to discover your ideal customers and identify the distribution channels needed to scale user adoption.

​Meet the Speaker

​Jason Tan founded Engage AI, bootstrapping it from concept to 100,000 users worldwide - a feat he achieved while fighting nasopharyngeal cancer in 2023.

He is a LinkedIn Top Voice, a public speaker, and a published author, helping leadership teams navigate the profound mindset shifts demanded by emerging technologies, guiding them to move beyond simple chatbots toward building AI products and agents that solve real human problems.

​He previously built Suncorp's personal insurance pricing optimisation system and guided advanced analytics for Westpac, QSuper, and government agencies.

​Jason currently advises startups on building AI products and scaling adoption while serving as Chief AI Officer at Ascendnce, building AI Co-Founders to help SMEs scale.

​To learn more, visit https://jpctan.com/ and https://ascendnce.com/

What to expect:

• Actionable strategies and a raw story: Learn from an experienced founder who 'has been there, done that' and find out how you can build and scale in the AI and tech space.
• Ample networking time: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, share experiences, and build valuable relationships.
• Fun and inspiring community: Enjoy the company of like-minded individuals and fuel your entrepreneurial spirit.

Light snacks and drinks will be provided.

Who should attend:

• Small business owners of all industries
• Freelancers and independent contractors
• Solopreneurs looking to learn, connect, and collaborate
• Early career professionals
• Aspiring entrepreneurs eager to learn and network
• Students interested in exploring the world of business and AI
• Creators and builders of all industries
• Anyone interested in business, AI, and tech

Meet up Location

The Precinct

Level 3/315 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006

Launch Event Space

More About StartBNE

StartBNE exists to help people go from idea to execution — by surrounding them with community, momentum, and clarity.

We give everyone a space to build their ideas with structure, energy, and real support — without the fluff, pressure, or gatekeeping.

Sometimes it’s a side hustle. Sometimes it’s a creative project. Sometimes it’s the goal you’ve been putting off.

StartBNE is Brisbane’s community for starting things — with the structure, support, and accountability you need to keep going.

We believe progress happens when people come together to share ideas, set goals, and show up for each other.

Whatever you’re starting, this is where it begins.

**Please note the logos seen in the banner are companies/organisations that Jason has associated with or worked with. They are not associated with startbne nor do they currently sponsor us. :)

Your hosts

Jasmine Watson

Community & Events Lead

Jasmine has fueled her entrepreneurial spirit through various community and business-related events over the past few years. From charity fundraisers and speaking events to youth workshops and networking groups, she has led unique experiences across Brisbane with immense passion for creating spaces for others to pursue their dreams.

Razib Miah

Senior Software Engineer at Atlas Engineering and Technology Group, Founder of SoftHash.

AETG is a leading Geotechnical Inspection and Testing Authority (GITA) based in Sydney, Australia. Razib works as a senior software engineer building AI-driven geotechnical software. Razib is also the founder of SoftHash, an early-stage enterprise business software company.