Perspectives from JAMS neutral Shirish Gupta and JAMS
Diversity Fellow Genesis Fisher on navigating co-founder separation
disputes.
Most businesses start with a group of dedicated people
identifying a problem, coming up with a solution and then figuring
out how to share their solution with the world. Launching a
business takes vision, vulnerability, grit, agility, and trust, as
well as plenty of coffee. It's not easy. Which is why people
start businesses with colleagues, friends and family—those
with whom they share a bond.
Despite a shared vision and community, co-founders often
disagree about how to operate and grow. Relationships break down.
Sometimes the union can be salvaged, but more often, co-founders
opt to go their separate ways. If this sounds more like a divorce
than a business or employment dispute, that's because it is and
the company is their baby.
