Alabama Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) is a legal contract created to facilitate agreements between individuals or entities providing capital to startup companies in Alabama, and the companies themselves. The agreement outlines terms and conditions regarding the potential future equity that the investor may receive in return for their investment. A SAFE is a popular instrument used in startup funding, as it offers a simpler alternative to traditional equity-based investment options, such as convertible notes or preferred stock. The SAFE does not require immediate valuation or establish a specific price per share at the time of investment. Instead, it allows for potential equity to be determined in future financing rounds, which can lead to a more efficient and streamlined investment process. One type of SAFE used in Alabama is the "Valuation Cap SAFE." This type of agreement includes a predetermined cap on the valuation of the company at the time of conversion. Upon conversion, the investor's equity stake is calculated based on the lowest valuation either from the cap or the company's valuation in the future financing round. Another type of SAFE utilized in Alabama is the "Discount SAFE." This agreement grants the investor a discount on the share price compared to future investors in subsequent financing rounds. This incentivizes early-stage investors to commit capital sooner, as they can acquire more shares with their investment compared to later-stage investors. The Alabama SAFE typically includes a variety of key terms and provisions. These may include the amount of the investment, the company's representation and warranties, information rights for the investor, conversion mechanics, the trigger event for conversion, and the potential consequences of a company's liquidation or acquisition. It is important to note that each Alabama SAFE is unique and the terms can vary based on the specific negotiations between the investor and the startup. Therefore, it is crucial for both parties to engage in thorough due diligence and consult with legal professionals to draft an agreement tailored to their specific needs and circumstances. In conclusion, the Alabama Simple Agreement for Future Equity, or SAFE, provides a flexible and efficient investment option for early-stage startups in Alabama, allowing investors to potentially receive equity in companies based on future valuations. The Valuation Cap SAFE and Discount SAFE are two common variations of the Alabama SAFE, each with their own unique terms and benefits.