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Hello, it's me Dimathe founder of PitchBoban AI co-pilot for entrepreneurs. And yes, I am a solo founder. Worse yet (or so they say), I'm a business-oriented founder, not a technician. This is a dead end, some might argue. And to some extent, they may be right. But only to a certain extent.
Recently, Carta published a study stating that 24% of co-founders in startups founded by two people do not last beyond the four-year limit. In other words, one in four co-founded startups turns into a single-founder-led startup within four years. “Wow,” I thought. “Wow,” investors must have thought, especially those who poured their money into a “dream team” of co-founders, only to end up with a single founder at the helm.
PitchBob is not my first startup. I've had both successes and my fair share of failures, all with my co-founders by my side.
Some of you may also be considering this choice, feeling the pressure from pundits, investors, mentors and so-called industry norms that insist startups must have co-founders.
I am not here to discourage or argue. The only establishment it's not for everyone. Instead, I want to focus on the advantages of the solo establishment – the reasons why I chose this path. Who knows, maybe in the future, I'll bring in a technical co-founder, but for now, the positives outweigh the potential negatives.
Related: Infographic: Do You Really Need a Co-Founder?
1. Leadership without conflicts
Conflicts between co-founders are among the main reasons startups fail. While solo founders face risks like burnout, illness, or unforeseen circumstances, the structure is inherently more stable. Why? Because there is no risk of falling apart due to disagreements over strategy, priorities or personal differences.
When you run a startup alone, you have the final say on every decision. This clarity can be a significant advantage in the uncertain and often chaotic world of startups.
2. Ego and cognition management
Let's face it – entrepreneurs often thrive on recognition. Allocation of capital may be simple, but allocation of attention is a different story. Like the leader of a group, the leader often gets the glory. If the co-founders are equally driven by the need for recognition, this can lead to friction.
As a solo founder, I don't have to navigate these challenges. Every success of the company is a direct reflection of my leadership. This dynamic eliminates potential tensions over credit and recognition.
3. Full control
As a sole founder, I enjoy the freedom to make decisions without the need for consensus. This autonomy allows me to act quickly and decisively, which is critical in the fast-paced world of startups.
I define the vision, define the strategy and make adjustments as needed, without compromising because of different opinions. It is not about refusing to cooperate, but about maintaining clarity in execution.
4. Financial independence
Solo founders retain full ownership of their company. I don't have to share shares, income or control with another founder. This simplifies financial planning and gives me full authority over the company's monetary decisions.
Investors also benefit from a cleaner capital structure. There is no risk of financial disputes between the co-founders, making the company's financial strategy more transparent.
5. Team building
Building a team as a sole founder means I can hire people who really align with my values and vision. There is no need to compromise hiring decisions due to conflicting priorities between co-founders.
This autonomy extends to the shaping of organizational culture. I can create an environment that reflects my principles and aspirations without diluting it to accommodate another founder's perspective.
Related: The myth of the co-founders
6. Personal growth
Being a solo founder is an intense growth experience. Challenges push you to develop resilience, adaptability and leadership skills. It's not just about running a company – it's about growing as a person.
There is no one to share the burden, but there is also no one to share the triumphs. This single responsibility drives unprecedented growth.
7. Simple decision making
Without a co-founder, the process of developing and launching ideas is faster. There is no need for endless discussions or compromises. When I build PitchBob, I can focus entirely on preparing the MVP without having to align with someone else's vision or timeline.
This simple decision-making can make all the difference in a competitive market where speed is of the essence.
8. Reduced bureaucracy
The solo establishment simplifies operations. There are fewer meetings, less paperwork, and no co-founding agreements to manage. Administrative overhead is significantly lower, allowing me to devote more time to the core tasks of building the company.
This lack of bureaucracy it also means greater versatility. Changes can be implemented immediately without lengthy discussions or approvals.
9. Unified vision
One of the greatest strengths of the solo establishment is the ability to maintain a unified vision for the company. There is no risk of disagreement between co-founders or conflicting priorities.
This consistency resonates throughout the organization, creating clarity for employees, investors and customers alike.
10. Motivation through responsibility
Knowing that the success of the company depends entirely on me is a challenge and a source of motivation. Every decision is important and every milestone is a testament to my efforts.
This level i accountability promotes focus and determination. There is no one else to share the blame or the credit, which makes each step of the journey deeply meaningful.
11. Unique solution
When all decisions flow from a single person, the company's strategy and solutions often feel more authentic and distinct. As a sole founder, I have the freedom to pursue ideas that align with my unique vision without having to compromise with others.
Related: 5 Ways for Solopreneurs to Sustain Momentum and Thrive
12. Clarity in execution
The Solo foundation offers unmatched clarity in execution. Without competing opinions or priorities, every decision aligns with the company's goals. This focus ensures that the company moves in a stable direction without the risk of internal conflicts impeding progress.
The single foundation is not for everyone. of CHALLENGE are real and the path can feel isolated at times. But for those who thrive on independence, control and responsibility, it can be a powerful way to build a business.