10y
It appears that there is a misunderstanding on what 'deferred' pay is which is understandable as it's not common in the USA. It's a 'bonus' of sorts, as and when the start-up hits net profit. Obviously pay cannot happen until we design products, and get profit from sales. CEO would not give a set timeline when the company would hit net profit as this is impossible to predict with new products in the market. Let's assume it's a misunderstanding by this reviewer. Please note internships are traditionally unpaid and no deferred pay even offered. This CEO offered the deferred pay as a benefit so when the company profits, so do the staff who helped to get it there.
I do believe that if someone is doing projects they are interested in they do a better job so if there are areas anyone wants to work in, communication with the CEO is the best. If you don't ask, you won't get.