North Carolina Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) is a legal document often used by early-stage startups in North Carolina to raise funding from investors. The SAFE is an alternative to traditional equity financing and serves as a promise to issue shares to the investor in the future upon the occurrence of certain trigger events. The North Carolina SAFE outlines the terms and conditions of the investment, providing protection for both the investor and the startup. This agreement allows startups to secure financial support without determining the valuation of the company yet, as it defers pricing until a later funding round or specified trigger event. There are different types of North Carolina SAFE agreements that cater to various investor requirements and preferences. Some of these variations include: 1. Valuation Cap SAFE: This type of SAFE sets a maximum valuation at which the investor will convert their investment into equity in the future. It ensures that the investor receives a proportionate share of the company while granting them protection against overvaluation. 2. Discount SAFE: In a Discount SAFE, the investor receives shares at a discounted price compared to the valuation of the next funding round. This encourages early-stage investment by providing an incentive for investors who bear risks during the initial stages of a startup. 3. Most Favored Nation (MFN) SAFE: With an MFN SAFE, the investor can obtain the most favorable terms granted to any subsequent investor in similar rounds. This provision ensures that the early investor will receive the same or even better terms as any subsequent investor, safeguarding their interests and encouraging early support. 4. Pro Rata Rights SAFE: This variation of SAFE offers investors the right to participate in subsequent financing rounds in proportion to their initial investment. It allows them to maintain their ownership percentage in the company by investing more capital alongside other investors during future funding rounds. It is crucial that both startups and investors carefully review and negotiate the terms of the North Carolina SAFE Agreement to ensure their mutual understanding and protection. Consulting legal professionals experienced in startup investments and North Carolina securities laws can provide valuable guidance during this process.