A simple agreement for future equity (SAFE) is a financing contract that may be used by a startup company to raise capital in its seed financing rounds. The instrument is viewed by some as a more founder-friendly alternative to convertible notes.
Equity agreements commonly contain the following components: Equity program. This section outlines the details of the investment plan, including its purpose, conditions, and objectives. Identifying information. Term. Closing and delivery. Representation and warranties.
Here is a Structure of a Private Equity Deal 'Sourcing' and 'Teasers' Signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) Initial Due Diligence. Investment Proposal. The First Round Bid or Non-Binding Letter of Intent (LOI) Further Due Diligence. Creating an Internal Operating Model. Preliminary Investment Memorandum (PIM)
A SAFE is an investment contract between a startup and an investor that gives the investor the right to receive equity of the company on certain triggering events, such as a: Future equity financing (known as a Next Equity Financing or Qualified Financing), usually led by an institutional venture capital (VC) fund.
An equity agreement, often referred to as a shareholder agreement or a shared equity agreement, is a legal contract that defines the relationship between a company and its shareholders. It specifies the rights, duties, and protections of shareholders, as well as the operational procedures of the company.
These agreements typically outline: The type of equity (e.g., stock options, restricted stock units, or direct equity grants) Vesting schedules (e.g., four-year vesting with a one-year cliff) Conditions under which the equity is forfeited (e.g., termination or resignation)
How to negotiate a SAFE agreement Understand the terms and conditions. Create a term sheet that outlines the conditions you're willing to accept and those you want to negotiate. Align interests with investors. Find investors who offer more than just capital. Come in with a plan. Focus on building relationships.
For example, if a SAFE has a valuation cap of $10 million, and your startup's next financing round values the company at $15 million, the SAFE investor's equity will be calculated based on the $10 million cap, not the $15 million valuation.
The Discount Rate is calculated as 100% minus the percent discount the SAFE investors are entitled to. For example, if SAFE investors are entitled to a discount of 20% (they can buy Standard Preferred Stock 20% cheaper than subsequent investors), the Discount Rate is 80% = 100% - 20%.
A Simple Agreement for Future s is a contract between a blockchain developer and a buyer, who contributes a certain amount of capital for the promise of an equal amount of s when the project meets specific goals. An SAFT is similar to an SAFE, which is for equity.