Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)

A Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) Note is an innovative form of convertible security that enables small businesses and startups to raise capital while postponing valuation.

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Last updated February 3, 2025

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Suitable for Australia

Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)

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What is a simple agreement for future equity (safe)?

A simple agreement for future equity (SAFE) is a contract where an investor provides upfront funds to a company in exchange for the right to receive shares in the future, typically during a later equity financing round.
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When should you use a simple agreement for future equity (safe)?

Use a SAFE when a startup or small business wants to raise capital quickly, avoid immediate valuation, and offer investors the potential to convert their investment into shares during a future funding round or liquidity event.
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What should be in a simple agreement for future equity (safe)?

A SAFE should include details about the investment amount, conversion terms, valuation cap, discount rate, rights and obligations of both parties, events triggering conversion, and general legal provisions such as termination and compliance.
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Frequently asked questions

Who is best suited to use this document?

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What protections does this agreement offer investors?

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Are there any limits or risks for investors?

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How does the valuation cap and discount rate work?

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What events trigger conversion of the investment to shares?

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What are the key steps after signing this agreement?

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Does this agreement work across Australia?

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View Sample Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)

Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)
risk level indicator at Medium level

The Legal Risk Score of a Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) Template is Medium

Our legal team have marked this document as medium risk considering:

  • The document allows the company to avoid issuing shares if it would trigger regulatory requirements or takeover provisions, potentially limiting the investor's ability to capitalize on their investment under certain regulatory conditions.
  • If the company undergoes any form of insolvency, the investor's ability to recover their investment is prioritized, but only to the extent that the company's assets cover the invested amounts, which might not fully protect the investor's financial interests in a worst-case scenario.
  • The investor's rights to influence company decisions through voting or other shareholder activities are not recognized until shares are actually issued, which may leave the investor without a say in company matters for an indeterminate period.
  • The document must be signed as a deed in order to be effective.


Meet Our Users

Articles about Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)

Introducing SAFE Notes: Startup Funding Explained
By Tony Zhen|Nov 28, 2025

Introducing SAFE Notes: Startup Funding Explained

Learn about how the new, simplified method of funding your startup business!

SAFE or Convertible Note? What You Need to Know
By Daniel Fane|Nov 21, 2025

SAFE or Convertible Note? What You Need to Know

SAFE and convertible notes offer great opportunities for new businesses to raise capital from investors early on. Here's our guide to how they work.

What Are ESOPs? Employee Share Option Plan Explained
By Adam Watters|Jan 28, 2025

What Are ESOPs? Employee Share Option Plan Explained

Considering an employee stock ownership plan for your business? Our guide on ESOPs can help!

8 Essential Legal Documents for Startups
By Zoe Spanos|Aug 12, 2022

8 Essential Legal Documents for Startups

Legal documents for startups are so important. They can minimise the risk of mistakes which would be costly down the line.

Why legal matters when starting a Business?
By Dominic Woolrych|Oct 15, 2013

Why legal matters when starting a Business?

When, why and how should you use the law when engaging in business practices. Read this article for a useful insight into the law and business.

5 Things to Know About Share Subscription Agreements
By Justin Pasqualino|Nov 28, 2025

5 Things to Know About Share Subscription Agreements

Expanding your business? Here's a quick guide to Share Subscription Agreements.

Convertible Notes: Advantages and Disadvantages
By Ryan Tjahjono|Oct 24, 2019

Convertible Notes: Advantages and Disadvantages

Convertible notes are a common way early stage startups can raise funding. Read about the advantages and disadvantages of using them here.

What is an Anti-dilution Clause?
By Meru Sharma|Jun 9, 2020

What is an Anti-dilution Clause?

Company interests can become diluted when the company issues additional shares - find out how using an anti-dilution clause can help.

4 Rounds of Startup Funding Every Founder Should Know
By Alex Moore|Nov 28, 2025

4 Rounds of Startup Funding Every Founder Should Know

Do you need to raise funding to grow your business? Read this article to discover more about the process and what’s involved.

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