Winnipeg founder validating junior dev comp assumptions

Hi there,

I have near zero experience with Comp Sci other than some entry level university courses from 25 years ago. That being said I've always been intrigued by it even though my career took me elsewhere.

I'm currently in the process of building a B2B software startup in Winnipeg. This is a side-project outside of my main career so the overall commitment is somewhere between casual and part time. Very minimal capital investment, pre-revenue, but the first customer target is identified and the market gap is documented. I bring deep domain expertise and industry connections. I'm looking to bring on a first developer, likely a recent UofM CS grad or final-year student. But willing to consider all applicants.

Would like to reality-check some assumptions before I get too far down the road. Genuinely curious what people here think:

1. Salary + grant subsidy

if I can secure grants I can issue a salary otherwise it would have to be deferred until first revenue? Is deferred salary a dealbreaker at the junior level, or does it depend entirely on how the equity looks?

2. Equity

Thinking 10–20% with a 4-year vest and 1-year cliff. For a pre-revenue startup with a credible concept and identified first customer, does that range feel meaningful or is it noise to someone just starting out?

3. Winnipeg specifically

Does the cost-of-living difference actually change how a junior dev weighs a startup offer vs. a stable corporate job? Or is the calculus the same regardless of city?

4. What would actually matter to you?

Not looking for what sounds good on paper, what would genuinely make you say yes to something like this over a safer first job?

Not posting a job ad, just trying to make sure my assumptions are grounded before I start any conversations. Appreciate any candid takes.