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Partnerships & Investors

How do business partnerships work?

An operating agreement defines who does what, who gets what, and how to exit.

Practical Explanation

A business partnership is governed by an operating agreement (LLCs) or shareholders' agreement (corporations). It defines ownership percentages, voting rights, distribution rules, transfer restrictions, and buy-sell mechanics. Get this document right before money moves.

Real-World Example

Two partners form an LLC with 60/40 ownership, monthly distributions of free cash flow, and a 5-year buy-sell trigger.

Typical cash required
Whatever each partner contributes.
Experience required
Complementary skills are the point.

Advantages

  • Shared capital and risk
  • Built-in accountability
  • Complementary expertise

Risks

  • !Disputes without clear governance
  • !Misaligned exit timing
  • !Hard to remove a partner

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a lawyer?
Yes — operating agreements are not a place to save money.

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