Discuss the difficult scenarios early
Document roles, time commitments, contributions, ownership, and decision making. Talk through a departure or disagreement while everyone can discuss those possibilities calmly.
Connect the documents
Founder arrangements should align with stock purchase agreements, vesting, IP assignments, and governing documents. A separate agreement cannot be assumed to override the rest of the company’s records.
Prepare for change
Identify which decisions need approval and how responsibilities may evolve. Revisit the arrangements when a founder changes roles or a financing alters governance.
