The New York Simple Agreement for Future Equity (NY SAFE) is a legal document widely used in startup funding that establishes a framework for investment between a startup company and an investor. It provides a simplified way to raise capital from investors without going through the cumbersome process and legalities associated with issuing traditional shares. This agreement is designed to help early-stage startups secure funding by offering equity to investors in exchange for their investment. It is a popular option for startups seeking financial backing while minimizing the complexity and costs typically associated with seed rounds. The NY SAFE agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the investment, detailing the amount of funding and the agreed-upon valuation of the company at the time of the investment. It also establishes the conversion terms, which determine how and when the investment will convert into equity shares in the future. There are different types or variations of the NY SAFE agreement, each tailored to meet the specific needs of the parties involved. These variations include: 1. pre-Roman SAFE: This type of agreement determines the valuation of the company before the investment is made. It is usually used when the company's value is already established or can be easily determined. 2. Post-Money SAFE: Unlike the pre-money SAFE, the post-money SAFE determines the valuation of the company after the investment has been made. This type is often used when the company's value is expected to increase significantly after the investment. 3. Capped SAFE: A capped SAFE agreement sets a maximum valuation for the company at which the investor's investment will convert into equity. This helps protect the investor from excessive dilution in case the company's valuation skyrockets. 4. Uncapped SAFE: In an uncapped SAFE, there is no predetermined maximum valuation for the company. This type is commonly used when the investors are willing to take on a higher level of risk in exchange for potentially higher returns. 5. Pro Rata Rights SAFE: This variation of the agreement grants the investor the right to maintain their ownership percentage in future funding rounds. It ensures that the investor has the opportunity to participate in subsequent investment offerings and avoid dilution. The New York SAFE agreement is a flexible investment tool that offers benefits to both startups and investors. It simplifies the fundraising process, helps attract funding, and establishes a clear framework for future equity proceedings. Startups can effectively raise capital, while investors gain access to promising early-stage companies.