Discuss the difficult questions early
Compare motivations, available time, decision-making preferences, role expectations, location, and approach to uncertainty. Talk about what happens if priorities or circumstances change. Do not assume friendship or complementary titles resolves these issues.
Use a trial with clear boundaries
Choose a small project with agreed responsibilities, a time window, and a review. Observe communication, reliability, disagreement, and follow-through. Get suitable professional advice before formalizing ownership, intellectual property, or company agreements. Startup School provides a separate co-founder matching resource; inclusion here does not imply a partnership.
Sources & further reading
Y Combinator · Startup SchoolSources reviewed 2026-09-13. Provider terms may change.