[hansel]

this makes a big difference from 'just an idea'. I would do two things: 1) offer them some equity based upon what would have been fairly vested (you will have to negotiate this, but start with room to get to "fair" but not insultingly low. base it upon hours invested) 2) offer them a chance to invest cash in your new venture so that the 'idea' can live on with a dedicated team and some cash resource. im assuming that they just lost interest or don't have the time, but may have cash.