Real Ownership Scenarios
Scenario 7: Investor Partnership
Capital partner funds the deal; operator runs and vests.
Practical Explanation
Pairs capital and operational expertise. Investor funds 80–95% of equity, operator vests into 15–30% over 3–5 years, governance is shared per the operating agreement. Scales to larger deal sizes than either party could pursue alone.
Real-World Example
Investor puts $500K equity into a $2.5M acquisition (rest is SBA). Operator vests into 25% over 4 years and earns a $130K base salary.
Typical cash required
Investor: majority of equity. Operator: little to none.
Experience required
Operator brings management track record.
Advantages
- ✓Larger deal access
- ✓Aligned strengths
- ✓Real ownership for the operator
Risks
- !Governance disputes
- !Exit timing
- !Operator turnover
Frequently Asked Questions
Typical hold?
5–7 years before exit.
Related guides
Ready to explore real opportunities matching this pathway?
Browse opportunities