Alabama Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) is a legal document that outlines an agreement between an investor and a startup company based in Alabama. This agreement allows the investor to provide funding to the startup in exchange for the right to acquire equity in the future. The Alabama SAFE is designed to simplify the investment process for both parties, providing flexibility and reducing the complexity associated with traditional equity financing. It is often used by early-stage startups seeking funding and investors looking for opportunities to support promising ventures. This agreement is commonly structured as a convertible note, which means that the investment made by the investor can be converted into equity in the future, typically during a later funding round or upon a specific event such as a merger or acquisition. The Alabama SAFE includes several key provisions to protect the interests of both the investor and the startup. Some of these provisions may include: 1. Valuation Cap: This establishes the maximum valuation of the company at which the investment can be converted into equity. It sets a limit on the potential dilution of the investor's ownership stake. 2. Discount Rate: The agreement may include a predetermined discount rate, providing the investor with a lower price per share in the future compared to other investors in subsequent funding rounds. This incentivizes early investment and compensates for the additional risk taken. 3. Conversion Triggers: The agreement outlines specific events or milestones upon which the SAFE investment will convert into equity. These triggers can be tied to funding rounds, the company's financial performance, or other predefined benchmarks. 4. Investor Rights: The Alabama SAFE may grant certain rights to the investor, such as information rights, pro rata rights (the right to maintain their ownership percentage in future fundraisings), or even voting rights, depending on the negotiated terms. While the Alabama SAFE follows the general structure and provisions of the widely-used Simple Agreement for Future Equity, it can have variations and modifications specific to the state's laws and regulations. Therefore, it is essential for both parties to consult legal professionals experienced in Alabama's startup ecosystem. In conclusion, the Alabama Simple Agreement for Future Equity offers a streamlined and standardized framework for startups and investors in Alabama to establish an investment relationship. With its various provisions and flexibility, this agreement aims to foster growth and development in the startup ecosystem while protecting the interests of both parties involved.