grub-stake

Noun

grubstake (plural grubstakes)

1. Money, materials, tools, food etc. provided to a prospector in return for a share in future profits.
   • I've been through hell. The other three are all at work and healthy, getting grub-stake to prospect up White River this winter.1918, Jack London, Like Argus of the Ancient Times
2. An amount of money advanced to someone starting a business in return for a share of the future profits.
3. Money, necessities stockpiled to sustain an effort for a period of time.
   • No one however should go to this country intending to mine without taking with him a year's supplies commonly known as a grub stake or its money equivalent about $1,000.1903, U.S. Geological Survey professional paper, page 35

See all 4 meanings of grubstake