How the co-founder equity split calculator works
This free co-founder equity split calculator scores each founder across six weighted factors - idea, commitment, skills, capital contributed, network, and risk taken - and produces a data-driven split recommendation. It replaces the awkward "let's just go 50/50" conversation with a structured framework you can debate factor by factor. No signup required, and results are shareable via URL.
Benchmarks founders should know
- Most common 2-founder outcomes: between 50/50 and 70/30 - equal splits are common but only right when contributions are genuinely equal
- Standard vesting: 4 years with a 1-year cliff - applies to founders as much as employees - accelerators and investors expect it
- When to decide: before incorporation or the first fundraise - renegotiating equity later is far harder
Frequently asked questions
How should co-founders split equity?
Score each founder on the factors that actually create value: the idea, full-time commitment, critical skills, capital contributed, network and fundraising access, and personal risk taken. Weight those factors, then split accordingly - this calculator does exactly that.
Should co-founders split equity 50/50?
Only when contributions are genuinely equal. An equal split chosen to avoid a hard conversation is a common source of later founder conflict; a structured framework makes the conversation easier now, when it is cheapest.
What vesting schedule is standard for founders?
Four years with a one-year cliff. Vesting protects everyone: if a founder leaves after a year, they keep what they earned and the rest returns to the company.
Is this equity split calculator free?
Yes. The Accelerator.tools equity split calculator is completely free, requires no signup, and results can be shared via URL.
Last updated July 2026 by the Accelerator.tools editorial team. Explore more free tools in the calculator library or browse the community-voted tool directory.