Arizona Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) is a legal tool designed to facilitate early-stage fundraising for startups and entrepreneurs in the state of Arizona. Offered by the Arizona Commerce Authority, this investment instrument allows companies to raise capital without issuing traditional equity shares. The primary purpose of the Arizona SAFE is to provide startups and investors with a simplified method for raising funds. It offers a flexible and founder-friendly approach by deferring the valuation of the company until a future milestone event, such as a subsequent equity financing round or sale of the company. The Arizona SAFE agreement is structured as a contract between the company and the investor. It outlines the investor's financial contribution and establishes the terms under which the investment will convert into equity or be repaid. This agreement typically includes clauses related to the investor's rights, such as information rights and pro rata participation rights, as well as provisions for various dispute resolutions. The Arizona SAFE agreement is particularly beneficial for early-stage startups that may find it challenging to determine a valuation or attract investors through more traditional methods. By deferring valuation and setting a predetermined conversion trigger, it allows companies to focus on building their business and reaching important milestones before addressing the issue of equity valuation. While the Arizona SAFE is a standard investment instrument, there may be variations or types of Safes available in the state of Arizona. These could include: 1. Valuation CAP SAFE: This type of SAFE agreement includes a valuation cap, which sets a maximum price at which the investment will convert into equity. It provides investors with some protection by ensuring that their investment is not diluted in case the company's valuation exceeds a predetermined cap. 2. Discount SAFE: This variation of the Arizona SAFE offers investors a discount on the future equity price when the investment converts. Investors who opt for this type of SAFE will receive shares at a lower price compared to future investors in subsequent financing rounds. 3. MFN (Most Favored Nation) SAFE: The MFN SAFE clause ensures that if the company subsequently issues Safes or convertible securities with more favorable terms to other investors, the original SAFE investor will receive the benefit of those terms. 4. Prorate SAFE: This type of SAFE agreement allows investors to maintain their ownership stake by providing them with the right to participate in future rounds of equity financing on a pro rata basis. It ensures that the investor has the opportunity to maintain their percentage ownership in the company. Overall, the Arizona SAFE offers an innovative and flexible approach to early-stage fundraising for startups and entrepreneurs in Arizona. Its various types and features allow companies and investors to tailor the agreement according to their specific needs, fostering a startup ecosystem conducive to growth and innovation.