First: The way you're mixing 1st and 3rd person in this post is very confusing. From the comments, it sounds like you're the CTO. Second: Echoing others, it's

First: The way you're mixing 1st and 3rd person in this post is very confusing. From the comments, it sounds like you're the CTO. Second: Echoing others, it's entirely reasonable that the VCs want a full-time commitment before paying you. Do you believe in your product? You've taken VC money and put in $40k, so you must believe in it some. If you can't make a full-time commitment then it's probably time to step aside for someone else who can (as this will be best for the company). "Either sh*t or get off the pot." Third: You are absolutely being compensated for your part-time work, even at $0. You have equity in the company, and presumably your ownership stake is growing in value. Of course it's hard to spend "paper wealth", but that's the founder's game. That should not be a surprise to you. More than anything, I'm confused (and concerned) by your lack of commitment. If you believe in this venture, why would you NOT want to jump in full-time? If you have some other job and just don't want to give up the income, I suggest that you are not really committed, and it would be better for everyone to bow out gracefully and forfeit / sell most of your equity stake back to the CEO. (updated: typo)