[rokhayakebe]

Be the first to fund his startup.

This is one mistake employers do. Do not try to retain him. If he wants it enough (and in this case he does) he will sooner or later find a way to make it happen.

Join him. Give him office space. You can still use his brain while he is around.

EDIT: Entrepreneurs should also not be afraid to share their ambitions with their boss. That is only if your boss started his own business. You may find a new partner in your boss. Remember that those who made it always want to help others make it as well. They will see themselves in you and noone can resist that.

[thaumaturgy]

That's really not a bad idea at all. I don't know all of the circumstances of their situation, but they might be able to set something up where jmagar will earnestly support and help launch his employee's startup, for a share of the action. While the startup's getting off the ground, the employee might be able to continue a few responsibilities at the company.

I know I would have jumped at a chance like that, mostly because I was scared witless of being without a regular paycheck.