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What is KISS Agreement (Keep It Simple Security)?

Definition

KISS Agreement (Keep It Simple Security)

A KISS Agreement (Keep It Simple Security) is a standardized open-source financing document created by 500 Startups that offers pre-seeded convertible equity or debt terms with investor-friendly investor protections.

Why It Matters for Startups

Provides structured, founder-friendly open-source legal terms for international accelerator cohorts.

Detailed Deep Dive

A KISS Agreement (Keep It Simple Security) is a standardized open-source financing document created by 500 Startups that offers pre-seeded convertible equity or debt terms with investor-friendly investor protections.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What are the two versions of a KISS agreement?

500 Startups provides a Debt Version (carrying a maturity date and interest rate) and an Equity Version (similar to a SAFE with no interest rate).

Q:How does a KISS differ from a YC SAFE?

KISS agreements include explicit investor information rights and major investor status provisions by default.

Quick Facts

  • CategoryFunding
  • Key ApplicationEarly-stage angel and accelerator investments, open-source fundraising contracts, and international seed syndicates.

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