Cook Illinois Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) is a financial instrument that allows investors to inject capital into early-stage companies in exchange for the potential to receive equity in the future. It is a popular funding mechanism used by startups and emerging businesses to raise funds without going through the traditional process of issuing shares. The Cook Illinois SAFE is a contract between the investor and the company, outlining the terms of the investment and the rights and obligations of both parties. Unlike traditional equity investments, which involve the purchase of shares at a fixed price, the SAFE does not determine the exact number or price of the future equity. Instead, it provides a framework for the conversion of the investment into equity at a future financing round or other specified events. This innovative instrument addresses some challenges faced by startups in valuing their business at an early stage. It eliminates the need for immediate valuation, allowing companies to secure capital without determining a specific price per share. The Cook Illinois SAFE also simplifies the investment process, reducing legal and administrative costs compared to traditional equity financings. There are different types of Cook Illinois Simple Agreements for Future Equity, depending on the specific features and conditions outlined in the agreement. These variations include: 1. Valuation cap SAFE: This type of SAFE caps the conversion price at which the investment converts into equity, ensuring that the investor receives the best possible terms if the company achieves a higher valuation in the future. 2. Discount SAFE: With a discount SAFE, the investor receives a predetermined discount on the price per share in the future financing round. This gives them an advantage over later investors, incentivizing early-stage investment. 3. MFN (Most Favored Nation) SAFE: The MFN SAFE grants the investor the right to benefit from any better terms or conditions offered to future investors in subsequent financing rounds. This ensures that the investor is not disadvantaged by subsequent investments receiving more favorable terms. 4. Performance-based SAFE: This type of SAFE sets certain performance milestones that the company must achieve for the investment to convert into equity. It aligns the interests of the investor and the company by incentivizing the achievement of specific targets. The Cook Illinois SAFE provides flexibility for both investors and companies, allowing them to customize the terms of the agreement to meet their specific needs. By using this instrument, startups can secure funding from investors while deferring the determination of valuation until a later financing round, enabling them to focus on growth and development in the early stages of their journey.