I keep coming back to this idea: what if I partnered with another Russian-founded brand that’s already in the US, or is entering at the same time, to split the learning curve and leverage each other’s networks?
On the surface, it makes sense. We share cultural context. We probably face similar challenges. We could co-create content, refer customers to each other, share introductions to US partners. Combined, we might have more credibility than either of us alone.
But then I start wondering: is this actually smart strategy, or am I just looking for a shortcut? Like, maybe the real work is building my own US presence, not finding a buddy to share the load.
Also, practically speaking: how do you actually structure something like that? Do you formalize it? Are you both benefiting equally or is one person doing more work? What happens if one person’s product actually takes off faster than the other’s? Does the partnership create friction?
I know a couple of founders in similar situations (though not in my exact space), and I’m wondering if it’s worth exploring. But I want to be realistic about whether this is a legitimate tactic or just wishful thinking.
Has anyone actually done this? What’s the honest reality?