Free Equity Ownership Agreement Template
Equity Ownership Agreement
I. Introduction
This Equity Ownership Agreement is designed to formalize the ownership structure and responsibilities of the shareholders or equity holders of [YOUR COMPANY NAME]. The purpose of this agreement is to clearly define the rights, duties, and obligations of each party involved. The terms herein are intended to ensure transparency and prevent future conflicts regarding ownership distribution, profit-sharing, and governance.
II. Company Information
This section provides key details about the company to ensure clarity regarding its legal identity.
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Company Name: [YOUR COMPANY NAME]
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Company Number: [YOUR COMPANY NUMBER]
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Company Address: [YOUR COMPANY ADDRESS]
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Company Website: [YOUR COMPANY WEBSITE]
III. Ownership and Equity Distribution
This section specifies the percentage of ownership held by each shareholder or investor.
Shareholder Name |
Ownership Percentage |
Contribution Type |
Date of Agreement |
---|---|---|---|
Anita Wehner |
40% |
Capital |
January 1, 2050 |
Jarvis White |
30% |
Services |
January 1, 2050 |
Gino Rohan |
20% |
Capital |
January 1, 2050 |
Edgar Spencer |
10% |
Employee Stock Option |
January 1, 2050 |
The ownership distribution reflects the respective contributions of each party, whether in terms of capital, services, or stock options.
IV. Roles and Responsibilities
Each equity holder's role and responsibility are outlined to ensure the effective operation of the company.
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Anita Wehner: Responsible for business development and strategic decision-making.
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Jarvis White: Oversees operations and product development.
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Gino Rohan: Provides funding and strategic advice to the company.
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Edgar Spencer: Contributes to marketing and sales efforts.
V. Decision-Making and Governance
The governance structure and decision-making process are critical for business operations. The following outlines the decision-making powers:
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Major decisions (e.g., mergers, acquisitions, changes in capital structure) will require a majority vote (51% or higher) of the equity holders.
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Each shareholder will have voting rights in proportion to their equity ownership.
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For day-to-day decisions, operational managers may be given authority under the guidance of the founders.
VI. Transfer of Ownership and Exit Strategy
This section provides the conditions under which ownership may be transferred or sold.
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Voluntary Transfer: Any shareholder wishing to sell or transfer their equity must first offer it to existing shareholders at the current fair market value.
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Involuntary Transfer: In the event of death, bankruptcy, or other involuntary actions, the shares may be sold to the highest bidder or transferred according to the company's buyout agreement.
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Exit Strategy: In the event of a company sale, merger, or IPO, equity holders will receive proceeds based on their ownership percentage.
VII. Dispute Resolution
In case of disputes among shareholders, the following process will be followed:
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Disputes will be resolved through mediation, with a neutral third party selected by the shareholders.
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If mediation fails, the dispute may be taken to arbitration under the laws of Texas.
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The decision made by the arbitrator(s) will be binding on all parties.
VIII. Conclusion
This Equity Ownership Agreement outlines the critical aspects of ownership, roles, decision-making, and exit strategies to ensure a clear understanding among all stakeholders. By adhering to this agreement, all parties commit to the success and governance of [YOUR COMPANY NAME] and its long-term goals.
Prepared by: [YOUR NAME]
Email: [YOUR EMAIL]
Date of Agreement: January 1, 2050