Incorporation
Also called Incorporating
Legally forming your company as a distinct entity, separate from you as a person, so it can own assets, sign contracts, raise money, and shield founders from personal liability.
Why it matters
Incorporating is the step that turns an idea into a real company that can hire, raise, and protect its founders. The type and place of incorporation have long-lasting tax and fundraising consequences, so it is worth getting right early.
For example
Two founders incorporate a private limited company so the business can sign contracts, hire, and raise money as an entity separate from them.
Worth your time
Related terms
Go deeper
See how founders actually handle this on Co-founders, team and legal, part of the Starting Up hub.