A Georgia Founders Agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the key terms and conditions agreed upon by the founders of a company based in Georgia, USA. This agreement serves as a crucial foundation for establishing the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of each founder within the company's operations. Key terms: 1. Founders: Refers to the individuals who are initiating the business venture and are signatories to the Founders Agreement. 2. Equity Distribution: Specifies how ownership interests or equity in the company will be allocated among the founders. 3. Roles and Responsibilities: Clearly defines the roles, responsibilities, and decision-making authority of each founder within the organization. 4. Capital Contributions: Specifies the financial commitments that each founder is required to make towards the company's capital. 5. Vesting: Outlines the vesting schedule indicating how and when each founder's equity will be earned over a specific period of time or upon achieving certain milestones. 6. Intellectual Property (IP): Addresses the treatment of any existing IP brought into the company by the founders and establishes guidelines for the development and ownership of future IP. 7. Confidentiality and Non-Compete: Enforces the need for founders to maintain confidentiality during and after their involvement with the company and restricts their ability to compete directly with the company. 8. Dispute Resolution: Outlines the procedures to be followed in settling disputes between founders, such as mediation or arbitration. 9. Termination or Exit: Specifies the conditions under which a founder may be terminated or may choose to exit the company voluntarily, including the transfer or buyout of their equity. Types of Georgia Founders Agreements: 1. Standard Georgia Founders Agreement: This is a comprehensive agreement that covers all the key aspects mentioned above and is suitable for most startups in Georgia. 2. Simplified Georgia Founders Agreement: Primarily used by small or early-stage startups, this agreement may contain fewer details and can be less formal. 3. Seed Stage Founders Agreement: Designed specifically for startups in the seed funding stage, this agreement may include additional clauses related to funding, investor rights, and dilution protection. 4. Tech Startup Founders Agreement: Tailored for technology-based startups, this agreement may include provisions related to software development, ownership of algorithms, and licensing of technology. It's important for founders in Georgia to consult with an experienced attorney to customize the Founders Agreement according to their specific requirements and to comply with Georgia state laws and regulations.