Questions on running a business on H1B

yes and yes.. it is your burden of proof

You can be the investor of a business while on H-1B. Be careful, however, that your activities do not amount to unauthorized work because you're supposed to be working only for your H-1B petitioner. Yes, your friends outside the U.S. can develop the website. Have them keep a log of activities t maintain/improve th business.

I agree with my colleague