A District of Columbia Co-Founder Agreement, also known as a Founder Agreement or a Startup Agreement, is a legal document that outlines the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of the co-founders of a business venture. This agreement serves as a roadmap for the relationship between the co-founders and helps to minimize conflicts, clarify roles, and protect the interests of all parties involved. Here is a detailed checklist highlighting the key components typically included in a District of Columbia Co-Founder Agreement: 1. Introduction: — Identify the parties involved by stating their names and roles as co-founders. — Mention the purpose of the agreement and the business venture. 2. Roles and Responsibilities: — Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each co-founder, emphasizing their specific areas of expertise. — Outline the decision-making process and how major company decisions will be made. — Specify the time commitment required from each co-founder. 3. Equity Ownership: — Determine each co-founder's initial equity ownership percentage based on their contributions (financial, intellectual property, skills, etc.). — Establish guidelines for equity redistribution in case of future investment rounds or changes in contribution levels. 4. Intellectual Property: — Specify how intellectual property ownership will be allocated between co-founders and the company. — Ensure that all parties agree to assign their relevant intellectual property rights to the company. 5. Vesting Schedule: — Determine a vesting schedule for the co-founders' equity, ensuring that it is subject to a certain period of service or achievement of milestones. — Define the terms under which the equity would accelerate or be forfeited (e.g., termination or breach of contract). 6. Capital Contributions and Expenses: — Outline each co-founder's financial contributions to the company, including initial investments and ongoing capital requirements. — Determine how expenses will be shared among co-founders. 7. Compensation and Salaries: — Decide whether co-founders will receive salaries or other forms of compensation. — Establish a process to review and adjust compensation over time. 8. Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure: — Include provisions to protect the company's confidential information, trade secrets, and proprietary knowledge. — Specify the obligations of each co-founder to maintain confidentiality during and after their involvement. 9. Dispute Resolution: — Determine the method for resolving disputes, such as negotiation, mediation, or arbitration. — Designate a jurisdiction and applicable law for any legal disputes. 10. Exit Strategy: — Define the options and procedures for a co-founder's departure from the company, including voluntary resignation, termination, or sale of their equity. — Address any non-compete or non-solicitation agreements. It is important to note that this checklist is not exhaustive, and the specific requirements of a District of Columbia Co-Founder Agreement may vary based on the particular needs and circumstances of the co-founders and the business. It is advisable to consult with legal professionals specializing in startup law to ensure compliance with local regulations and to draft a well-tailored agreement. Different types of District of Columbia Co-Founder Agreements may include variations in terms of equity distribution, vesting schedules, compensation structures, and other provisions based on the unique needs and goals of the co-founders. Examples include technology-specific co-founder agreements, service-based co-founder agreements, or agreements tailored for specific industries or business models.