How do I find a co-founder?

HOW Question

Quick Answer

Y Combinator co-founder matching, niche Discord servers, r/cofounder, university alumni, and #buildinpublic Twitter. Past coworkers have the highest hit rate. Always run a 4-week trial project before formalizing.

Detailed Explanation

Sources: (1) Y Combinator co-founder matching — free, vetted. (2) Niche Discord servers in your industry. (3) r/cofounder subreddit. (4) University alumni networks. (5) #buildinpublic Twitter community. (6) Past coworkers — highest hit rate. Always: run a 4-week paid or unpaid trial project. Watch for ego, blame-shifting, over-promising under stress. Default to 50/50 equity with 4-year vesting and 1-year cliff.

Real-World Examples

Stripe (Patrick + John Collison): brothers, years of building together

Airbnb: roommates with months of side-project history before formalizing

Key Takeaways

  • Trial project > assumed compatibility
  • 50/50 equity by default
  • 4-year vesting protects both
  • Past coworkers > strangers

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I split equity 50/50?

Default yes unless one contributes asymmetric capital or time. Equal equity reduces resentment.

Do I need a co-founder?

Not always. Solo is fine with discipline + distribution.

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