Start with the role, not a return figure
The phrase silent partner can describe very different arrangements. One operator may want someone who participates in decisions occasionally; another may expect a purely passive role. Write down who runs daily operations, approves major expenses and receives reports. Ask how disagreements are handled and whether either party can change the operating plan. A label in a brochure does not explain ownership or responsibility. Have a qualified professional examine the proposed agreement and explain what it means for your circumstances before you make a decision.
Request records you can reconcile
Ask the business for a dated operating history, sales records, expense summaries and evidence supporting its claims. Compare the same period across documents rather than combining a strong sales month with a quieter expense month. Separate cash collected from invoices issued and distinguish one-off income from recurring sales. Request explanations for gaps instead of accepting screenshots without context. BIC can facilitate the conversation, but a listing or document review is not a substitute for your own independent checks on the business and the people operating it.
Understand how cash leaves the business
Revenue alone does not show what a business can distribute. Rent, salaries, suppliers, repairs, delivery charges and working capital can consume cash even when orders look healthy. Ask the operator to show an ordinary month and a weaker month using the same assumptions. Clarify how owner compensation, related-party purchases and future expansion are treated. If a projected ROI is discussed, record the assumptions next to it. Projection, not a promise. Returns are variable and never guaranteed. You could lose capital, and access to an exit may be limited.
Discuss reporting and exit before entry
Agree what information will be shared, how often it will arrive and who can answer questions about it. A useful reporting pack can include sales, major expenses, cash requirements and exceptions to the plan. Discuss what happens when the operator is unavailable, a location closes or more money is needed. Ask whether a proposed exit depends on another buyer, the operator's consent or available business cash. Do not assume you can recover money on demand. Put unresolved points in writing and review them with your own advisers.
Make a document review tracker
Create a tracker with five columns: question, document requested, date received, person responsible and unresolved issue. A sales claim should point to a particular reporting period and supporting record. Keep a separate row for exit terms so they are not lost among operating questions. Mark unanswered items as pending. Bring the tracker to your independent adviser and keep the final version with the documents you reviewed.
Use BIC for a clear introduction
Share your city, business interests, broad budget range and desired level of involvement. Do not send bank statements, identity documents or account credentials through the enquiry form. The initial discussion should identify the kind of business you want to understand and the questions that need answers. BIC is a business facilitation and technology platform, not an investment adviser. Money never flows through BIC. Any partnership agreement and payment are directly between the relevant parties, subject to their independent review and agreed terms.
Frequently asked questions
Does BIC receive partnership money?
No. Money never flows through BIC. Any partnership agreement and payment are directly between the business and partner.
Can I rely on projected ROI?
Treat it as an assumption to examine. Projection, not a promise. Returns are variable and never guaranteed.
What should I prepare for a first call?
Your city, preferred business sector, broad budget range, involvement expectations and questions about records, reporting and exit.
Discuss your next step
Tell us what you need and how to reach you. The BIC team can clarify the service, explain the next step and arrange a relevant discussion. Please keep passwords, identity documents and customer information out of this form.