Founders, your cap table isn’t just a dusty spreadsheet

Houman Asefi
2 min readFeb 9, 2024

https://captabler.com

It’s a living document, a story waiting to be told.

And guess who’s listening intently?

Investors.

That’s right, your cap table can make or break your funding dreams. So, let’s rewrite the narrative with some key takeaways:

1. Ditch the DIY and embrace the tools: Don’t waste precious time reinventing the wheel. Leverage existing cap table management tools to keep your data organized and accurate. Trust us, your sanity (and investors) will thank you.

2. Equity: Sharing is caring, but strategically: Investors expect you to hold enough equity for yourself and your future A-team. Show them you’re committed to building a powerhouse! Remember, reserving a healthy option pool attracts top talent too.

3. Cleanliness is key (and investors agree): A messy, error-ridden cap table screams red flags. Keep it clear, concise, and up-to-date. It reflects your leadership skills and attention to detail — both major selling points.

4. It’s all about balance: We advocate for founders owning a fair share, but don’t forget your employees! A healthy option pool keeps them motivated and invested in the journey.

5. Nip it in the bud, don’t let it explode: A tiny misstep today can become a monstrous headache tomorrow. Get your cap table right from the start, and avoid costly fixes down the line.

Ready to craft a cap table that wows investors and tells your unique story? Let’s connect!

#startup #captable #ownership #equity #investors #founders

P.S. Share your biggest cap table win (or lesson learned) in the comments! We’re all ears (and ready to share our expertise).

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