Reminder for people who are running startups and are in serious relationships: nothing should be a secret from your spouse/partner. Especially money.

Maybe they're supporting you so you can recycle every dollar of revenue back into the business. Maybe you're gambling your shared savings on the success of your venture. Maybe you've got a good financial position and your family will be safe no matter what.

It doesn't matter. Tell your spouse. Get their advice. You don't have to take it, but they are a valuable resource to you, someone you can trust to listen to you, keep your secrets and have a different perspective.

It should not come as a surprise to him/her that the shutdown is likely; the shock of "no, it's definitely over" should only be a small bump.

Then you can both live through it, and go on to the next thing you have to do.