AI Equity Distribution Calculator

Calculate fair equity splits for your startup team based on contributions, roles, and industry standards. Our AI analyzes thousands of successful startups to recommend optimal equity distribution.

"Equity is the most valuable currency you have as a startup. Be incredibly thoughtful about how you allocate it."

Sam Altman, Former President of Y Combinator

67%

Startups fail due to co-founder disputes

2-3x

Better outcomes with fair equity

Calculate Your Equity Split

Start Equity Calculator

Free calculation • Based on 10,000+ startup data points

Factors We Consider

Contribution Factors

  • • Initial idea and concept development
  • • Technical development and product building
  • • Business development and sales
  • • Financial investment and fundraising
  • • Time commitment (full-time vs part-time)

Risk & Experience

  • • Previous startup experience
  • • Industry expertise and connections
  • • Opportunity cost (salary sacrifice)
  • • Joining timeline (early vs late)
  • • Critical skills and replaceability

Common Equity Structures

Equal Split (50/50 or 33/33/33)

Best when co-founders contribute equally from day one

Pros: Simple, avoids conflict early
Cons: May not reflect actual contributions over time

Weighted by Contribution

Equity based on roles, experience, and commitment

Example: CEO 40%, CTO 35%, CMO 25%
Best for: Teams with clear role differentiation

Dynamic Equity Split

Equity earned over time based on contributions

How it works: Track contributions, adjust periodically
Best for: Early-stage with uncertain commitments

Equity Best Practices

Vesting Schedules

Implement 4-year vesting with 1-year cliff to protect against early departures

Employee Pool

Reserve 10-20% for future employees and advisors

Written Agreements

Document everything legally to avoid future disputes

Regular Reviews

Revisit equity splits at major milestones or funding rounds

Ready to Calculate Fair Equity?

Our AI-powered calculator helps you avoid costly equity mistakes. Get personalized recommendations based on your specific situation and industry benchmarks.