Partnerships & Investors
What if I have experience but no money?
Find a capital partner, pursue Earn-In Ownership, or join via a Sweat Equity Partnership.
Practical Explanation
Operators with strong track records have multiple paths to ownership without writing a big check: Investor Partnership (capital partner funds, you operate and vest), Earn-In Ownership (equity vests as you run the business), or Sweat Equity Partnership (equity for performance). All three trade time for capital.
Real-World Example
A senior operations manager joins a $4M revenue business as president and vests into 25% over 4 years tied to growth milestones.
Typical cash required
Often $0–$25,000.
Experience required
High — these structures pay for performance.
Advantages
- ✓Real ownership without capital
- ✓Lower personal financial risk
- ✓Use your existing skills
Risks
- !Long vesting timelines
- !Equity is illiquid until exit
- !Founder/investor disputes
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be a real owner?
Yes — vested equity is real equity with voting and economic rights, subject to the operating agreement.
Related guides
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