#948 · Startup Tool

Pre Seed Ownership Calculator

Create a simple fully diluted ownership breakdown for founders, investors, ESOP, and SAFE holders. Use it to understand cap table balance before the next funding round.

Calculator

Cap table inputs
sh
sh
sh
sh
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How to use this calculator

  1. Enter founder common shares.
  2. Enter investor preferred shares.
  3. Add shares reserved or issued under the ESOP.
  4. Add SAFE or convertible shares on an as-converted basis.

What the result means

Ownership percentage is calculated on a fully diluted basis. A healthy pre-seed cap table keeps founders motivated while leaving enough equity for investors and hiring.

Ownership percentage = Holder shares ÷ Fully diluted shares.

This is a simplified cap table view. It does not model liquidation preferences, multiple share classes, or vesting schedules.

Example calculation

If founders own 1,000,000 shares out of 1,500,000 fully diluted shares, founder ownership is 66.7%.

Tips for better results

  • Review fully diluted ownership, not only issued shares.
  • Keep enough ESOP for key early hires.
  • Understand SAFE conversion before the next priced round.
  • Avoid fragmented small investor ownership too early.

FAQ

How do I calculate founder ownership after a pre-seed round?

Divide founder shares by fully diluted shares including investor shares, option pool shares, and converted SAFE shares.

What is fully diluted ownership in a startup cap table?

Fully diluted ownership includes all issued shares plus option pool shares and convertible securities as if they were converted.

How much ownership should founders keep before Series A?

There is no fixed rule, but founders generally want enough ownership to remain motivated after several future financing rounds.

Should SAFE shares be included in ownership calculations?

Yes, use an as-converted estimate so you can see the potential dilution before the next priced round.

How does ESOP affect founder ownership?

An ESOP increases the fully diluted share count, reducing founder percentage ownership even before options are granted.

Startup decision table

MetricMeaning
Founder OwnershipFounder percent of fully diluted shares
Investor OwnershipInvestor percent of fully diluted shares
ESOP + SAFEHiring reserve and convertible impact

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