Convertible Loan Agreement Startup Template for United States

A Convertible Loan Agreement is a legally binding document used in the United States that enables startups to receive funding that can later convert into equity. It outlines the terms of the loan, including principal amount, interest rate, maturity date, and conversion mechanisms. The agreement includes specific provisions governed by U.S. federal and state securities laws, addressing both the debt aspects and the equity conversion rights. It serves as a bridge between debt and equity financing, typically used in early-stage funding rounds.

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What is a Convertible Loan Agreement Startup?

The Convertible Loan Agreement Startup is a sophisticated financing instrument widely used in the United States startup ecosystem. It provides a flexible funding solution for early-stage companies that need capital but may find it challenging to establish a firm valuation. This agreement type allows startups to defer valuation discussions while securing immediate funding, with the loan converting to equity upon specified trigger events, such as a qualified financing round. The document must comply with federal securities laws, state-specific regulations, and applicable lending rules. It typically includes detailed conversion mechanics, investor rights, and protective provisions for both parties.

What sections should be included in a Convertible Loan Agreement Startup?

1. Parties: Identification of lender(s) and borrower, including full legal names and addresses

2. Background/Recitals: Context of the loan, purpose, and basic structure of the transaction

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the agreement including Conversion Price, Maturity Date, Qualified Financing, etc.

4. Loan Amount and Terms: Principal amount, interest rate, maturity date, and payment terms

5. Conversion Rights: Terms and conditions for converting the loan into equity, including triggers and conversion price

6. Representations and Warranties: Standard company and lender representations

7. Events of Default: Circumstances constituting default and remedies

8. Governing Law: Applicable jurisdiction and choice of law

What sections are optional to include in a Convertible Loan Agreement Startup?

1. Security: If loan is secured, details of collateral and security arrangements

2. Board Observer Rights: Rights of lender to attend board meetings

3. Information Rights: Rights to receive financial and other company information

4. Pre-emptive Rights: Rights to participate in future funding rounds

What schedules should be included in a Convertible Loan Agreement Startup?

1. Form of Conversion Notice: Template notice for exercising conversion rights

2. Cap Table: Current capitalization table of the company

3. Form of Promissory Note: If separate note is issued, template of the note

4. Security Documents: If secured, relevant security agreements and filings

5. Stockholder Rights: Rights attached to shares post-conversion

Authors

Alex Denne

Head of Growth (Open Source Law) @ Genie AI | 3 x UCL-Certified in Contract Law & Drafting | 4+ Years Managing 1M+ Legal Documents

Jurisdiction

United States

Publisher

Genie AI

Document Type

Equity Agreement

Cost

Free to use

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