Sweat Equity 101

​This practical masterclass, delivered by Sweqlink in partnership with LSE Generate, introduces early-stage and first-time founders to using sweat equity as a way to build teams when capital is limited. The session focuses on clarity, alignment, and setting expectations early so that equity-based collaboration supports long-term progress rather than creating friction.

​Building the right team is one of the hardest challenges founders face, particularly before funding. This session offers a clear, grounded introduction to how sweat equity can be used to engage serious, capable collaborators, establish shared expectations, and avoid the common missteps that undermine early partnerships.

​You’ll learn

• ​What sweat equity is (and isn’t)

• ​How founders attract talent through equity-based roles

• ​How to approach valuation and contribution fairly

• ​Common early-stage mistakes — and how to avoid them

​Judy Leung is CEO of Manchester-based Sweqlink, built on the belief that access to talent — and ownership — shouldn’t be limited to those with the deepest pockets. She helps founders build strong, aligned teams through equity-based roles, bringing clarity and fairness to early partnerships (and fewer awkward conversations along the way). She is a Women in Innovation Award winner with Innovate UK.