What is Pulley?
For startup founders, the one hurdle that is as complex as managing equity is most likely choosing the right platform to begin with. Founders today enjoy a diverse selection of equity management platforms, each hosting powerful features that appeal to varying needs and stages.
One such platform is Pulley, a top-rated cap table management platform created in 2020. Pulley helps founders and employees, especially those in the early stage, raise capital, set up equity grants, and make more informed decisions while maintaining accurate ownership records.
In this article, we’ll explore Pulley’s features and how well it stacks up to other platforms, so that you may pick the right one for your startup.
An equity management platform or software is a centralized location for all equity-related activities. From as early as Demo Day and ultimately to IPO, founders use this software to build and maintain cap tables, issue and manage equity, model potential scenarios, and so on.
Things to consider when choosing equity management software
Before we dive into Pulley’s features, here are several key considerations to keep in mind.
Is it easy to use?
Having multiple features doesn’t mean much if its ease of use doesn’t measure up. The right software should be easy to learn and understand, featuring complex functions that empower rather than bog you down.
Will it scale with your startup’s growth?
Startups never stay static, so look for a full-stack solution that will scale with your company as it grows from early-stage seed funding to Series A and beyond.
Will there be support for you when you encounter issues?
Equity management is complex, so save yourself from potential pitfalls and headaches with software that offers professional support.
Does it come with independent professional advisors?
Appraisals such as 409A valuations can only be completed by independent third-party professionals. To minimize risk, cost, and confusion, pick software that is already partnered with independent providers.
Will it address your reporting and compliance needs?
Good equity management software is built with compliance in mind—notifying you of any updates and assisting in filling out your cap table. This should include Rule 701 analysis and Form 3921 readiness.
Does it come with scenario modeling?
Make better decisions when signing and negotiating terms in your fundraising rounds or exit. A good equity management software should help you visualize how your current or upcoming convertible notes and SAFEs convert in scenario modeling.
The design philosophy behind the software is just as important as its features, and the best ones tend to be built based on real-life experience. For example, LTSE Equity’s ease of use reflects the insights of its founders—which includes The Lean Startup’s Eric Ries.
Pulley alternatives
Here’s how Pulley stacks up to other top-rated equity management platforms.
|
Pulley |
Carta |
Eqvista |
AngelList |
Shareworks |
LTSE Equity |
Onboarding |
Onboarding takes around 10 days. |
Onboarding may take up to 90 days to complete. |
One-time setup service is available separately. |
Onboarding can take 3-5 business days. |
There is no readily available information online about how long onboarding can take. |
Features concierge and self-service onboarding—users can start building cap tables within minutes. |
Cap Table Health Check |
Pulley does not offer cap table health checks. |
Carta’s cap table health check is only available to select clients. |
Eqvista does not offer cap table health checks. |
AngelList does not offer cap table health checks. |
Shareworks does not offer cap table health checks. |
LTSE Equity offers annual cap table health checks across all plans. |
409A Valuation |
Pulley provides two valuation reports in annual subscriptions that start at $3,500 / year. |
Carta’s 409A valuations are completed in-house and may take longer. |
Eqvista’s 409A valuations are completed in-house. |
AngelList’s 409A is only included in its highest tier. |
Sharework's 409A valuations are done in-house. |
LTSE Equity lets users work with dedicated analysts from an extensive network of 409A experts.
Founders can get industry-specific, defensible 409A valuations in 3 easy steps.
|
Expert Consultation |
Pulley features a fast and experienced customer support team. |
Carta frequently hosts educational webinars. |
Eqvista provides paid consultation sessions for users. |
AngelList offers priority support under its Growth plan. |
Shareworks has a sales team that is ready to provide product advice. |
LTSE Equity’s Boost plan offers expert consulting on funding, legal, and governance strategies.
Click here to meet LTSE Equity’s consultants. |
Sharing & Data Portability |
Pulley cap tables are not easily exportable. |
Carta cap tables are not easily exportable. |
Equivista users can generate 3 types of reports. |
AngelList users can sync seamlessly with their payroll and HRIS provider. |
Shareworks tables are not easily exportable. |
As co-founders of the Open Cap Table Coalition, LTSE Equity makes it easier than ever for users to share their cap table with their team, admins, investors, and other service providers. |
Pricing |
Pulley’s pricing starts at $1,200 a year. |
Carta users are subject to opaque pricing, hidden fees, and surprise price hikes. |
Eqvista’s Freemium users need to pay separately for beginner-friendly features such as setup and 409A. |
AngelList’s pricing factors in your headcount—the bigger your team, the more expensive it gets. |
Pricing is not readily available. |
3 founder-friendly plans to choose from, with Boost offering the best value for founders who are ready to take off. |
TL;DR? LTSE Equity might just be the platform you’re looking for if you prefer:
- Expert Guidance: LTSE Equity’s team of founders and experts are with you every step of the way.
- Audit-Defensible 409A: Complete your 409A in 3 easy steps with LTSE Equity’s veteran 409A partners.
- Better Exportability: LTSE Equity makes it easier than ever to share your cap table with your stakeholders.
LTSE Equity FAQs
What makes LTSE Equity different from other platforms?
LTSE Equity is created by founders, for founders. Our full suite of equity management features reflects our real-life experience and insights, empowering your startup to prosper and endure.
How much does LTSE Equity cost?
Our pricing is strictly founder-friendly and scales as you grow. Our plans are also completely transparent, with no hidden costs or surprise price hikes.
Does LTSE Equity provide a free trial or demo?
Yes! Dive into our full-featured demo now and discover every benefit LTSE Equity has to offer—no sign-ups required.
How can I switch to LTSE Equity?
Simply send us your current spreadsheet or cap table, and we’ll get your details onboarded within a week.
How can I ask more questions about LTSE Equity?
Not sure which plan to choose? Looking for a live demo? Schedule a call with our team now.