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by Bagchi Law P.C.

Issuing Equity

Issuing equity is one of the most important decisions a company makes, yet founders are often introduced to SAFEs, convertible notes, stock grants, advisor equity, and other instruments without a clear understanding of how they work together.

Each tool serves a different purpose and carries different legal, ownership, and governance implications. Selecting the right structure early can help avoid confusion, dilution disputes, and corrective work later.

Whether you are preparing to issue equity for the first time or revisiting prior issuances, the goal is the same: ensuring ownership is documented correctly, expectations are aligned, and the company can confidently stand behind what it has granted.

From Instrument → System

Step 1

Understand

Context

Identify who is receiving equity and why, whether an investor, advisor, employee, or early contributor.

Step 2

Select

Instrument

Determine whether SAFEs, notes, stock issuances, or advisor equity are appropriate.

Step 3

Define the

Terms

Set valuation caps, discounts, vesting, or grant structures as needed.

Step 4

Document and

Implement

Ensure the instrument is properly documented, authorized, and integrated into your structure.

Common Questions

Not sure where things stand?

Let’s walk through it together.

Book a Consultation

© 2026 Bagchi Law P.C. All rights reserved.

A

D

H

oc

F

OUNDERS

C

OUNsel

by Bagchi Law P.C.

Issuing Equity

Issuing equity is one of the most important decisions a company makes, yet founders are often introduced to SAFEs, convertible notes, stock grants, advisor equity, and other instruments without a clear understanding of how they work together.

Each tool serves a different purpose and carries different legal, ownership, and governance implications. Selecting the right structure early can help avoid confusion, dilution disputes, and corrective work later.

Whether you are preparing to issue equity for the first time or revisiting prior issuances, the goal is the same: ensuring ownership is documented correctly, expectations are aligned, and the company can confidently stand behind what it has granted.

From Instrument → System

Step 1

Understand

Context

Identify who is receiving equity and why, whether an investor, advisor, employee, or early contributor.

Step 2

Select

Instrument

Determine whether SAFEs, notes, stock issuances, or advisor equity are appropriate.

Step 3

Define the

Terms

Set valuation caps, discounts, vesting, or grant structures as needed.

Step 4

Document and

Implement

Ensure the instrument is properly documented, authorized, and integrated into your structure.

Common Questions

Not sure where things stand?

Let’s walk through it together.

Book a Consultation

© 2026 Bagchi Law P.C. All rights reserved.