The type of business ownership in which two or more persons share all costs of opening, operating, and maintaining a business is a:

A partnership is a type of business ownership where two or more individuals come together to share the responsibilities, costs, and profits of operating a business. Each partner typically contributes capital, shares in decision-making, and participates in the operations, making it a collaborative approach to entrepreneurship. This structure allows partners to pool their resources and skills, which can enhance the business’s potential for success and growth.

In a partnership, the agreement between the partners outlines how profits and losses are distributed, and the level of involvement for each individual in the business operations. This contrasts with a sole proprietorship, where one person is solely responsible for the business, and a corporation, which is a separate legal entity providing limited liability to its owners. A franchise involves a business model where a franchisee operates under the trademark and business model of a franchisor, often requiring initial fees and ongoing royalties, which is distinctly different from the shared ownership aspect of a partnership.