Founders typically give up 20-40% of their company's equity in a seed or series A financing. But this number could be much higher (or lower) depending on a number of factors that we will discuss shortly. “How much equity should we sell to investors for our seed or series A round?”
In summary, 1% equity can be a good offer if the startup has strong potential, your role is significant, and the overall compensation package is competitive. However, it could also be seen as low depending on the context. It's essential to assess all these factors before making a decision.
Startups typically allocate 10-20% of equity during the seed round in exchange for investments ranging from $250,000 to $1 million. The percentage and amount can be dependent on the company's stage, market potential, and the extent of capital needed to achieve initial milestones.
In summary, aim for 1% to 5% equity, considering your role and the startup's potential. Ensure you have a clear vesting agreement, and don't hesitate to negotiate based on your contributions and the lack of salary.
Most startup investors will require that all co-founders, including part-time ones, have their equity subject to vesting. The typical vesting period is 3 to 4 years. For example, a part-time co-founder may be granted 20% equity with 25% vesting after one year, then 75% vesting over the following 36 months.
In summary, 1% equity can be a good offer if the startup has strong potential, your role is significant, and the overall compensation package is competitive. However, it could also be seen as low depending on the context. It's essential to assess all these factors before making a decision.
As a rule of thumb, a non-founder CEO joining an early-stage startup (that has been running less than a year) would receive 7-10% equity. Other C-level execs would receive 1-5% equity that vests over time (usually 4 years).
In summary, 1% equity can be a good offer if the startup has strong potential, your role is significant, and the overall compensation package is competitive. However, it could also be seen as low depending on the context. It's essential to assess all these factors before making a decision.
There is a wide range of provisions that could be addressed in a Founders' Agreement. The template below includes provisions about: transfer of ownership; ▪ ownership structure; ▪ confidentiality; ▪ decision-making and dispute resolution; ▪ representations and warranties; and ▪ choice of law.