Associates Program Model

A model for training and developing entrepreneurs through a structured program that provides salary and mentorship while working on business ideas.

Core Program Structure

• Hires people as "associates" - entrepreneurs in training
• Pays them a salary while they develop and work on business ideas
• Helps filter out "12 bad ideas that every entrepreneur has when they're 27"
• Provides mentorship and guidance throughout the process

Program Outcomes

• Associates can either:
  • Start a company with Girdley
  • Take a job elsewhere
  • Partner on new ventures

Partnership Model

• When starting companies with associates:
  • Girdley takes significant stake but not 100%
  • Associates get meaningful equity (ranges from 5-40%)
  • Prefers when partners put in their own money alongside his
  • Values having partners make it their full-time job

Success Factors

• 100% success rate on partnerships
• Best outcomes when:
  • Partners are co-founders
  • They invest their own money
  • Make it their primary focus/job
• Compensation structure:
  • Junior associates: $60-80k + benefits
  • Senior/experienced hires: Higher compensation + equity
  • Equity varies based on:
    • Stage of venture
    • Level of commitment
    • Amount of skin in the game

Value Exchange

• Girdley provides:
  • Strategy insights
  • Best practices
  • Connections
  • Substantial initial capital ($50k-$2M+)
  • Board member involvement
• Associates provide:
  • Day-to-day operations
  • Full-time commitment
  • Complementary skills to partnership