How Much Equity to Give Co-Founder
Posted3 months agoActive3 months ago
Otherstory
calmmixed
Debate
20/100
Co-Founder EquityStartup ManagementFounder Dynamics
Key topics
Co-Founder Equity
Startup Management
Founder Dynamics
I started this company about 2.5 years ago and brought someone on as a business co-founder. He contributed significantly to shaping the product, which was developed by me and a small team of 2–3 others. His time commitment varied—minimal at first, but up to 40 hours per week toward the end. The main issue is that, over 2.5 years, he did not approach a single investor, which was a key part of his role. I asked him to step down 45 days before his 1-year cliff (the agreement was 20% over 4 years). Opinions vary—some suggest giving him 5%, others 0.5%. I’m trying to determine a fair amount.
The author is seeking opinions on how much equity to give a co-founder who contributed to product development but failed to secure investors, with comments offering varying perspectives on a fair equity split.
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- 01Story posted
Oct 17, 2025 at 1:49 AM EDT
3 months ago
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Oct 17, 2025 at 2:00 AM EDT
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Oct 17, 2025 at 3:19 AM EDT
3 months ago
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Discussion (2 comments)
Showing 2 comments
walking87
3 months ago
1 replyHold your word. 5%
HelloNurse
3 months ago
Do you want to be known as an untrustworthy partner? Probably not, be generous.
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ID: 45613658Type: storyLast synced: 11/17/2025, 10:10:12 AM
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