If you started as a solo-founder and have made progress on the business (especially if you've already raised), you should consider a something along the line of an 80/20 split of founder shares. In fact, the range I'm seeing is anywhere from 5-20% for the 2nd co-founder.
Many believe that an equal split signifies fairness for all and the majority of founders begin with 50/50 equity splits.
Of ~22% in founders' equity. This pattern matches with the rule of thumb that dictates founders to park no less than 20-30% collectively for themselves at exit (in an ideal world).
Equal equity split As the name suggests, this approach enables each co-founder to get the same number of shares of the company, e.g. a 50-50 split among two founders, etc. It is a common approach among startups and is usually adopted when each founder will be considered to contribute equally to the company's growth.
Many believe that an equal split signifies fairness for all and the majority of founders begin with 50/50 equity splits.
Research from Harvard Business School professors also shows that investors are less likely to invest in startups with a flat split. Dividing equity equally may signal that the co-founders aren't willing negotiators or that they're not prepared to risk conflict or disagreement to resolve important issues.
Different ways to split equity among cofounders Equal splits. Weighted contributions. Dynamic or adjustable equity. Performance-based vesting. Role-based splits. Hybrid models. Points-based system. Prenegotiated buy/sell agreements.
Many believe that an equal split signifies fairness for all and the majority of founders begin with 50/50 equity splits.