How to be a successful founder and co-founder

What It Takes to Be a Great Founder & Co-Founder: A Discussion & Workshop

Join us for an exclusive, intimate roundtable discussion where we will explore the key traits, challenges, and dynamics that define great founder and co-founders. This workshop is designed for startup founders, co-founders, and those considering launching a business, offering a space to engage in deep, meaningful conversations about what truly makes a co-founder partnership successful.

Through candid discussions and interactive exercises, we will cover essential topics, such as:

• Foundational Skills 
• Co-founder Dynamics 
• Growth & Scaling
• Community & Connection (
• Personal Well-being
• Learning from Setbacks

This interactive session will not only provide valuable insights from successful entrepreneurs but also offer a safe space for you to reflect on your own co-founder relationship—whether it’s thriving or facing challenges. You’ll leave with a better understanding of how to build, improve, or even avoid a co-founder relationship that can be the foundation of your startup’s success

Who Should Attend?

• Founders and co-founders seeking to strengthen their partnership
• Entrepreneurs exploring the idea of bringing on a co-founder
• Early-stage teams who want to set the foundation for a successful collaboration

To get the best out of this time, think about questions that you have specific as well as what your doing currently, here are some sample questions that might inspire you. 

• How do you and your co-founder currently divide responsibilities?
• Are you aligned on the long-term vision for the company?
• How do you handle conflict or difficult conversations with your co-founder?
• Do you fully trust your co-founder to follow through on their responsibilities?
• How does your co-founder handle setbacks or changes in the business?

These questions will help you come prepared for deeper insights and meaningful discussions during the session.

Who will be hosting the session:

Martin Boyd is the Director of CREST Australia and CEO of Vertex Cyber Security, dedicated to protecting hundreds of organisations—from startups to ASX Top 50 companies and government agencies—from cyber threats. Drawing on a decade at Commonwealth Bank of Australia, where he served as Executive Manager of Cyber Security, Martin now channels his expertise into supporting Australia's tech ecosystem through mentorship and advisory roles.

Aligned with Stone & Chalk’s mission, Martin helps founders and innovators navigate the complexities of startup growth, connecting them with critical resources, investor networks, and cybersecurity insights. Together, Stone & Chalk and Vertex foster a collaborative environment that empowers startups, scaleups, and industry leaders to thrive in Australia’s rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Event Details:

• Date & Time: Wednesday 20 November 
• Location: Stone & Chalk Sydney Startup Hub, Level 4/ 11 York st Sydney 2000
• Capacity: Limited to the first 20 participants to ensure an intimate and productive discussion

Reserve Your Spot Today!
Spaces are limited, so make sure to secure your place and be part of this valuable roundtable discussion.