On paper, investing in a co-working space with a partner can seem like a win-win—shared costs, new energy and room to grow. But without the right groundwork, that dream setup can quickly turn into a logistical (and financial) headache. Beyond the financial appeal, leaders must consider how aligned they are on culture, goals and compliance expectations. Factors like exit strategies, data security and shared responsibilities can make or break the partnership if not addressed early.
Before you sign the lease or shake hands, take a step back. Here, Forbes Business Development Council members share what you should consider to ensure a co-working partnership builds opportunity—not tension.
1. Compliance Risks And Responsibilities
Leaders must not only look at the financial upside but also assess whether compliance risks and responsibilities are clearly defined and manageable before investing. Both partners must ensure systems comply with GDPR and have clear data-processing responsibilities. Customer confidentiality—what if client names or records from one partner should never be visible to the other? – Bas Bogerd, Supplied AI
2. Exit Strategy
Exit strategy is one factor leaders can’t ignore. What happens if the partnership doesn’t work out? It’s often not how you start that matters, but how you’ll leave. So, keep in mind that unwinding a shared lease or membership can be far harder than most expect. – Bryce Welker, The CPA Exam Guy
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3. Alignment
One critical factor is alignment. Make sure your partner’s goals, values and way of working match your own. A co-working space is more than shared desks: it is shared culture, costs and brand perception. If the relationship is built on trust and strategic alignment, the partnership can amplify growth rather than create friction. – Michael Fritsch, SavvyCOO
4. Legal Agreement
Establish a clear, legally binding agreement. Define responsibilities for operational costs and revenue sharing. Crucially, your agreement must include a detailed exit strategy and a plan for dissolving the partnership. This protects both parties from financial and reputational damage in the event of unforeseen challenges. – William DeCourcy, AmeriLife
5. Information Security Management System Requirements
Before investing in a co-working space with a partner, leaders must consider information security management system (ISMS) requirements. Shared spaces can heighten risks around data access, compliance and confidentiality. Aligning with robust ISMS protocols ensures regulatory adherence, protects client trust and safeguards brand reputation in a collaborative environment. – Salice Thomas, Wipro Limited
6. Resultant Value
This question is no different from any other investment decision you make and what is the resultant value this investment brings. Similarly, co-working space investment should be evaluated on the same matrices, for example, financial ROI, brand value and recognition, market forces perception, short, mid- and long-term objectives and any other criterion may be unique to your organization. – Mustansir Paliwala, Zomara Group
7. Cultural Compatibility
Before investing in a co-working space with a partner, leaders must weigh cultural compatibility. A shared office magnifies daily habits, and mismatched values or styles can quietly erode energy and output. When cultures dance in rhythm, progress becomes effortless; when they clash, even harmony feels like noise. – Praneeth Kudithipudi, Sacumen
8. Shared Vision
Alignment of goals is the key factor. If both partners don’t share the same vision for how the co-working space will be used, growth plans, culture and financial expectations. It can create friction quickly. Clear agreements up front prevent big headaches later. – Raviraj Hegde, Donorbox