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Sweat Equity Contract Template for England and Wales

A Sweat Equity Contract under English and Welsh law is a legally binding agreement where an individual provides services to a company in exchange for equity ownership rather than monetary compensation. This document outlines the terms of service, equity allocation, vesting schedule, and various protections for both parties. It combines elements of employment law, company law, and securities regulations to create a framework for non-cash compensation while ensuring compliance with UK legal requirements.

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What is a Sweat Equity Contract?

A Sweat Equity Contract is commonly used by startups and growing businesses in England and Wales when they want to incentivize key individuals but lack immediate cash resources. This document establishes the legal framework for exchanging services for ownership stakes in the company, typically including detailed service requirements, equity calculations, vesting schedules, and protection clauses. It's particularly relevant for early-stage companies looking to attract talent while preserving capital, and must comply with UK company law, employment regulations, and tax requirements.

What sections should be included in a Sweat Equity Contract?

1. Parties: Identifies the company and the individual providing sweat equity

2. Background: Context of the agreement and relationship between parties

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the agreement

4. Services: Details of work/services to be provided by the individual

5. Equity Grant: Terms of share allocation and vesting schedule

6. Valuation: Method of valuing services and shares

7. Term and Termination: Duration of the agreement and termination provisions

8. Representations and Warranties: Standard representations from both parties

9. Confidentiality: Protection of confidential information

10. General Provisions: Standard boilerplate clauses including governing law, notices, and entire agreement

What sections are optional to include in a Sweat Equity Contract?

1. Non-Competition: Restrictions on competing activities during and after the agreement term

2. Intellectual Property: Assignment and protection of IP rights created during the service period

3. Good/Bad Leaver Provisions: Specific provisions detailing consequences of different types of termination

4. Tax Provisions: Specific arrangements regarding tax treatment of the equity grant

5. Board Participation: Rights and obligations regarding participation in company governance

What schedules should be included in a Sweat Equity Contract?

1. Schedule 1 - Service Description: Detailed scope of services to be provided by the individual

2. Schedule 2 - Vesting Schedule: Detailed timeline and milestones for share vesting

3. Schedule 3 - Share Rights: Detailed description of share class rights and restrictions

4. Schedule 4 - Company Valuation: Current company valuation methodology and figures

5. Schedule 5 - Shareholders' Agreement Deed of Adherence: Form of deed binding the individual to existing shareholders' agreement

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

England and Wales

Publisher

Genie AI

Document Type

Equity Agreement

Cost

Free to use

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