Three ways to take in early money
At the earliest stage you usually choose between a SAFE, a convertible note, or a priced equity round. Each trades off speed, cost and certainty.
SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity)
- Fast and cheap, no interest or maturity
- Converts to equity at the next priced round
- Watch valuation caps and discounts
Convertible Note
- Debt that converts to equity
- Carries interest and a maturity date
- More investor protection than a SAFE
Priced Round
- You set a valuation and issue shares now
- More legal cost and time
- Cleaner cap table and clarity for everyone
In India, note that pure SAFEs need careful structuring under company and FEMA rules, especially with foreign investors. Many local deals use CCPS (compulsorily convertible preference shares) for priced rounds.
Use SAFEs/notes to move fast on a small round; switch to a priced round once you have real traction and a lead investor.
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