The Oklahoma Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) is a legal arrangement that serves as an alternative to convertible notes for startups in Oklahoma. It provides entrepreneurs with a flexible framework for raising capital without getting entangled in complex legal paperwork or valuations. This investment instrument enables startup founders to secure funding from investors in exchange for the promise of future equity. Here, we will delve into the Oklahoma SAFE, its features, and its role in the state's startup ecosystem. The Oklahoma SAFE is an essential tool that bridges the gap between funding rounds for startups looking to grow while minimizing the administrative burden associated with traditional financing methods. It allows entrepreneurs to attract early-stage investors without the need to set a specific valuation at the time of investment, making it both founder-friendly and investor-friendly. Key features of the Oklahoma SAFE include: 1. Equity Conversion: The Oklahoma SAFE grants investors the right to convert their invested funds into equity at a later funding round or a predetermined milestone, such as a sale or initial public offering (IPO). This conversion ensures that investors receive an equitable share of ownership based on their initial investment. 2. Valuation Cap: In some cases, the Oklahoma SAFE may include a valuation cap that sets a maximum valuation at which the investor's funds will convert into equity. This feature ensures that investors are not diluted excessively if the startup achieves a significant valuation in subsequent funding rounds. 3. Discount Rate: Another potential feature of the Oklahoma SAFE is a discount rate, which provides investors with a predetermined percentage discount on the price per share during equity conversion. This allows early investors to obtain more equity for their investment when compared to later-stage investors. 4. No Interest or Maturity: Unlike traditional convertible notes, the Oklahoma SAFE does not accrue interest or have a maturity date. This eliminates the need for startups to make interest payments or worry about repayment deadlines, reducing financial burdens and complexities. Oklahoma offers different types of SAFE instruments to cater to various startup needs. These may include: 1. pre-Roman SAFE: This type of Oklahoma SAFE does not include a valuation cap or a discount rate. It grants investors the right to convert their investment into equity during a subsequent funding round based on the prevailing share price at the time, ensuring simplicity and ease of use. 2. Post-Money SAFE: The post-money SAFE includes a valuation cap but lacks a discount rate. This structure provides a maximum valuation at which investors' funds will convert into equity, typically beneficial for startups with a potential for high valuations in future funding rounds. 3. Discounted SAFE: This variation of the Oklahoma SAFE includes a discount rate but lacks a valuation cap. Investors are eligible for a predetermined percentage discount when converting their investment into equity, allowing them to maximize their ownership stake. In conclusion, the Oklahoma Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) is a versatile and founder-friendly legal instrument that enables startups in Oklahoma to secure early-stage investments without having to determine a valuation upfront. Its features, including equity conversion, valuation caps, discount rates, and absence of interest and maturity, make it a preferred financing option for both startup founders and investors. Ultimately, the Oklahoma SAFE plays a crucial role in facilitating capital flow and fostering the growth of innovative ventures in the state's startup ecosystem.