Cap table software

For startups and growing companies, managing equity distribution can quickly become complex and time-consuming. Enter cap table software, a technology solution designed to simplify the management of a company’s ownership structure. In this article, we’ll explore what cap table software is, its benefits, top players in the market, considerations for choosing the right software, and even touch upon some frequently asked questions about cap tables.

What Is Cap Table Software?

A cap table, short for capitalization table, is a document that outlines the ownership structure of a company, detailing who owns what percentage of equity. Cap table software, also known as cap table management software, is a digital tool that automates the tracking and organization of equity ownership, making the process more efficient and accurate.

What Cap Table Software Does

Cap table software serves as a central hub for recording, updating, and analyzing ownership information. It keeps track of various types of equity, such as common shares, preferred shares, and stock options, and calculates the dilution effects of new funding rounds, employee stock grants, and other equity events.

Benefits of Cap Table Software

1. Accuracy: Cap table software reduces the risk of errors that can arise from manual calculations, ensuring that equity data remains accurate and up-to-date.
2. Efficiency: Automating cap table management saves time and effort, allowing startups to focus on growth instead of administrative tasks.
3. Transparency: Clear visualizations and reports provided by the software enhance transparency among stakeholders, including founders, investors, and employees.
4. Compliance: Cap table software assists with compliance by generating accurate records for regulatory filings.

What is the best cap table software?

Selecting the optimal cap table software is paramount for efficient equity management. Carta and Pulley emerge as prominent contenders in this realm. Carta stands out with its comprehensive equity management suite, encompassing cap table management, valuations, investor relations, and compliance reporting. On the other hand, Pulley focuses on early-stage startups, offering user-friendly tools for simplified equity issuance and tracking. With distinct strengths, Carta and Pulley cater to diverse needs within the startup landscape, setting the bar for cap table software excellence.

Top Cap Table Software for Startups by Market Share

Several cap table software solutions dominate the market, including Carta, Capshare (now part of Gust Equity Management), and Pulley. These platforms offer a range of features catering to the needs of startups and established companies alike.

Free Cap Table Management Software

Both Carta and Pulley offer free plans tailored for companies with fewer than 25 stakeholders, which typically translates to 25 shareholders or option holders. As the company size increases, the cost structure varies between these two cap table vendors. Let’s explore the details.

How to Choose the Best Cap Table Management Software for Your Startup?

Choosing the right cap table software involves considering factors like the size of your company, future growth projections, features required, ease of use, and cost. It’s important to select software that aligns with your company’s current needs and long-term goals.

• Will your law firm use it? Typically, early-stage companies rely on law firms to assist with capitalization table management, especially during Series A. Approach your legal counsel to inquire about their preferred tools, though they might initially recommend Carta. If you’re considering alternatives like Pulley, be prepared to advocate for your choice.
• Cost considerations. For fledgling startups, cost-effectiveness is crucial. Opt for a solution that starts with affordable pricing to align with your early-stage budget.
• User-friendliness. If you’re taking the DIY route for cap table management, a user-friendly interface is paramount. Some systems are optimized for board approval of option grants, even accessible enough for VCs to use on their smartphones during their commute.
• Support for diverse securities. Choose a vendor capable of handling various securities, including preferred stock, restricted stock, warrants, SAFEs, converts, and options. Ensure they can accommodate both pre and post-money notes, as some newer vendors might have limitations in this aspect. Be proactive in selecting a solution that aligns with your likely securities issuance.

Features That You Probably Don’t Need

While cap table software can come packed with a variety of features, not all of them may be necessary for your specific situation. Avoid overpaying for software that includes bells and whistles you won’t use.

• Scenario modeling isn’t a startup’s core focus. Complicated cap table issues arise rarely, affecting less than 1% of clients, making it an unnecessary extra expense. Prioritize fundamental features.
• Exit modeling is even less practical, often indulging daydreams. While estimating buyouts like Google’s $10 billion may be satisfying, it’s not highly useful. In real exits, legal experts provide accurate outcomes. Remember, higher sale values often benefit shareholders.
• 409A valuations. Most cap table vendors include 409A valuations in packages. While it’s a “free” addition, a separate low-cost 409A purchase is feasible. Don’t overly fixate on it.

Carta versus Pulley: A Closer Look

Two prominent cap table software providers, Carta and Pulley, have gained significant attention. Carta offers a comprehensive suite of equity management tools, while Pulley focuses on simplifying equity issuance and tracking for startups.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cap Tables

• What Is a Cap Table in Startup? A cap table in a startup is a record that outlines the ownership structure of the company, detailing who owns what percentage of equity.
• What Makes a Good Cap Table? A good cap table is accurate, up-to-date, transparent, and able to accommodate future changes in equity ownership.
• How Do You Manage a Cap Table? Cap table management involves tracking equity ownership, updating records after equity events, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
• How Do You Make a Cap Table? Cap tables can be created manually using spreadsheets or managed through dedicated cap table software.
• Who Manages a Cap Table? Typically, a combination of company founders, finance professionals, and legal experts manage the cap table.
• What Is the Difference Between a Cap Table and a Stock Ledger? A cap table is a summary of equity ownership, while a stock ledger is a detailed record of individual shareholder transactions and ownership history.

In conclusion, cap table software is an invaluable tool for startups and companies looking to efficiently manage their equity ownership. By automating the tracking and reporting of ownership data, cap table software streamlines operations, enhances transparency, and ensures accurate compliance with regulatory requirements. When selecting cap table software, consider your company’s needs and growth trajectory to make an informed choice.