diff --git a/aqt/main.py b/aqt/main.py
index c9691c75f..969472248 100644
--- a/aqt/main.py
+++ b/aqt/main.py
@@ -1316,7 +1316,8 @@ will be lost. Continue?"""))
     def onAppMsg(self, buf):
         if self.state == "startup":
             # try again in a second
-            return self.progress.timer(1000, lambda: self.onAppMsg(buf), False)
+            return self.progress.timer(1000, lambda: self.onAppMsg(buf), False,
+                                       requiresCollection=False)
         elif self.state == "profileManager":
             # can't raise window while in profile manager
             if buf == "raise":
diff --git a/aqt/sync.py b/aqt/sync.py
index 1be967dd8..44b944017 100644
--- a/aqt/sync.py
+++ b/aqt/sync.py
@@ -74,7 +74,7 @@ If you use any other devices, please sync them now, and choose \
 to download the collection you have just uploaded from this computer. \
 After doing so, future reviews and added cards will be merged \
 automatically."""))
-        self.mw.progress.timer(1000, delayedInfo, False)
+        self.mw.progress.timer(1000, delayedInfo, False, requiresCollection=False)
 
     def _updateLabel(self):
         self.mw.progress.update(label="%s\n%s" % (