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Ask HN: Receive compensation for initial development effort for my start up?

by weef on 11/26/13, 3:50 AM with 2 comments

My start up has three founders - me and two business guys. I will be developing the website and they will provide the business expertise and cover expenses while we are still pre-revenue. We will split the company three ways. The dilemma I'm having is the website I'm developing will become quite complex when it's finished and it seems like I should receive some upfront (or as we go) compensation for the website. Has anyone encountered a scenario like this before and as a developer how were you compensated for the initial development?
  • by andy_campanella on 11/26/13, 4:25 AM

    While you are adding unique value as the only developer, you have to consider how much they're investing in cash for expenses and opportunity cost. I tend to think that nobody gets paid at the beginning. If the website is very complex and core to the company, maybe the equity split should reflect that.
  • by benologist on 11/26/13, 4:42 AM

    If you want a job then get a job. If you want to build a company without shouldering any risk get a job at someone else's startup.