Trying to build a startup while working full-time - advice on money and IP.
Hey all!
I’m currently working full-time as a project manager at a university in the UK, and on the side I’m building a startup with two co-founders (who also work at the same university). We’ve recently been accepted into an accelerator programme (July–September), which is exciting—but it doesn’t come with funding.
Right now, I’m trying to figure out two big things at the same time: finances and IP.
On the financial side, I want to give this startup a real shot—especially during the accelerator—but I still need to sustain myself. I’m weighing options like:
- staying in my current job for stability
- switching to something more flexible or less demanding
- taking on part-time / freelance / gig work (delivery, shifts, etc.)
- or relying on savings for a limited runway
At the same time, I’m a bit concerned about IP. Since all of us are employed at the university, we’re trying to be careful about keeping the startup completely separate from our day jobs. The idea and development are being done outside of work, but there’s still that underlying worry about overlap or how this might be perceived.
So I’m in this position where I’m thinking:
- do I stay in my role and balance everything carefully?
- or is it safer (and mentally cleaner) to step away and remove any potential grey areas?
I’m also conscious of energy—some jobs might cover expenses but leave me too drained to actually build the startup properly.
For those who’ve been in a similar situation:
- how did you support yourself financially in the early stages?
- did you prioritise stability or flexibility?
- how did you handle IP concerns while still employed?
- did you wait until leaving your job before incorporating or going all-in?
- anything you’d do differently in hindsight?
Would really appreciate hearing real experiences—trying to make a grounded decision here. Thanks!