The Unicorn SAFE

We’re investors, and we invest our time and resources in useful pursuits.

Some of our prospective clients ask us to take a piece of the company, in lieu of cash-based compensation. Our answer: We’re always interested to partner with outstanding teams.

So we use the standard Y Combinator SAFE as a base, and build from there.

We like this because:

  1. Our interests are now fundamentally aligned in building long-term value for your business.

  2. You’re now under less cash flow pressure - and less pressure makes raising capital that much easier.

We have rules in place to make sure that when we become invested, that we’re aligned with winners & enable them to grow.

 

Here are our rules:

  1. We must be able to contribute meaningful value to the business, and agree with its principles.

  2. One of the following must apply:

    1. Minimum of $200,000 in sales in the past 12 months.

    2. Founders can demonstrate at least one successful exit >$10,000,000.

    3. Existing investor base includes well-known institutional investors.

  3. We can apply a maximum of 50% of the total cost of a project toward a SAFE. We have to cover our own overheads.

  4. The SAFE can only be used for fixed-term engagements, with a fixed time commitment.

  5. If we’re invested in your business, we have a vested interest in your success. We want to see you be successful. We want you to have the tools, tips & secrets to raise like a professional. And when it’s time for you to raise, we want you to be able to close a round at the speed of light. You must go through the Speak Investor Pitch Accelerator Program, so you are trained to crush it now and into the future. (We roll 100% of the cost of the program at its discounted price into our contribution.)

For more details on the structure and terms, please see The Unicorn Standard SAFE.