The Colorado Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) is a legal instrument used by startups and early-stage companies to raise capital while avoiding the complexities and costs associated with traditional equity financing options. A SAFE is essentially an agreement between an investor and a company that provides the investor with the right to receive equity in the future, typically upon the occurrence of specific triggering events such as a future financing round or sale of the company. Key features of the Colorado SAFE include: 1. Equity Conversion: Unlike traditional convertible notes, a SAFE does not accrue interest or have a maturity date. Instead, it offers an investor the right to convert their investment into equity at a predetermined valuation cap or discount to the future financing round. 2. Simplicity and Flexibility: As the name suggests, a Colorado SAFE is a straightforward and standardized agreement that avoids the need for extensive negotiations and legal documentation. It simplifies the fundraising process providing companies and investors with flexibility and efficiency. 3. Investor Protection: Although a Colorado SAFE is considered an investment, it does not grant the investor any shareholder rights. However, in case of liquidation, the investor is prioritized over common stockholders, ensuring some level of protection. Types of Colorado SAFE agreements: 1. Valuation Cap SAFE: This type of SAFE includes a predetermined valuation cap, which sets a maximum valuation at which the investor's investment converts into equity. If the future financing round results in a higher valuation than the cap, the investor benefits from a lower price per share. 2. Discount SAFE: In this variation, the investor receives a discount off the future financing round's price per share. For example, if the agreed discount is 20%, the investor would convert their investment at a lower price per share compared to new investors. 3. Hybrid SAFE: A hybrid SAFE combines the valuation cap and discount features, providing the investor with the option to choose between the two conversion methods based on which results in a more favorable outcome. Overall, the Colorado SAFE is a popular fundraising tool that enables startups and early-stage companies to attract investment without the immediate need to determine the company's value. It simplifies the financing process, allows for flexibility in negotiation, and provides some level of protection for investors.