FAQ
Convertible Notes

This FAQ about convertible notes will make you understand what a convertible note is and how it can be used to bridge fund a startup.

Convertible Notes & Loans

What is a convertible note?

A convertible note is a type of loan that is intended to be converted into equity as part of a future investment round. It is a popular form of financing for startups that are in the early stages of development and are not yet ready to set a valuation. The convertible note typically comes with an interest rate and a discount on the share price of the future equity investment round. It allows startups to raise money quickly without having to go through the process of determining a valuation.

A convertible note is often regarded as a pre-investment round and is typically used to bridge the gap between startup funding rounds. While it is technically a form of investment, it is not a traditional investment round in the same sense as equity financing.

 

Convertible notes are a type of debt instrument that can convert into equity at a later date, usually upon the occurrence of certain conditions, such as the next funding round. This means that the investor is effectively lending money to the company, with the expectation of receiving equity in the future.

 

The advantage of using a convertible note is that it can be a quick and easy way for startups to raise money without having to determine a valuation for the company. Instead, the valuation is deferred until the next funding round when it can be more accurately assessed based on the company’s performance.

 

However, convertible notes do come with some drawbacks. They can be complex and difficult to understand, and the terms can vary widely from one note to another. Additionally, because convertible notes are debt instruments, they must be repaid if the conversion into equity does not occur.

 

Overall, convertible notes can be a useful tool for startups looking to bridge the gap between funding rounds, but they are not a substitute for a well-planned investment strategy. As with any investment, it’s important to carefully consider the terms and potential risks before making a decision.

Venture debt is a popular financing instrument offered by VC firms like Ark Capital and Silicon Valley Bank for startups that have achieved a minimum of $1 million annual recurring revenue (ARR). It is a form of debt financing that comes with a relatively high interest rate of around 10% p.a. However, compared to convertible notes, venture debt does not have a discount component, which makes it a more cost-effective financing option.

 

One of the key benefits of venture debt is that startups can obtain loans in a 1:1 ARR ratio, meaning that for every dollar of ARR, they can receive one dollar in funding. This makes it possible for startups to access significant amounts of capital to fund their growth and expansion plans. However, the loan amount is subject to the level of risk associated with the startup’s customer base, which means that startups with a small number of large customers may receive less funding than those with a more diverse customer base.

 

While venture debt can be a useful financing option for startups, it’s important to weigh the costs and benefits carefully. The high-interest rates can make it a more expensive form of financing over the long term, and the added debt burden can make it harder for startups to achieve profitability. As with any form of financing, it’s important to work with experienced advisors to develop a comprehensive funding strategy that aligns with your business goals and objectives.

A revenue share loan is a financing option that is based on a startup’s monthly recurring revenue. With this type of loan, startups can typically access up to one-third of their revenue and are required to pay back between 6-8% of their revenue each month.

 

This type of loan can be particularly useful for fast-growing startups that need cash to fuel their growth but may not yet qualify for traditional bank loans. By leveraging their existing revenue streams, startups can access the capital they need to expand their operations, hire more employees, or invest in new products or services.

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