Assess their risks, liquidity, investments, returns, timeframes and other terms
Invest in startups in exchange for equity
Invest in startups
The standard minimum investment on Wefunder for most Community Rounds is $100. However, the exact minimum can vary based on the specific offering and the investor's status as an accredited investor.
Investing in startups on Wefunder is highly risky, and there's a real possibility of losing your entire investment.
Investing on Republic involves significant risks such as the potential total loss of investment, illiquidity, long-term commitment without guaranteed returns, risk of dilution, limited information on investments, and possible impacts from regulatory changes.
Wefunder's investments are not highly liquid, as there is no public market for selling your stake. After one year, you can sell to any interested buyer.
Investments on Republic are generally illiquid, meaning it may be difficult to sell or convert them into cash quickly.
On Wefunder, investors can earn returns through different investment mechanisms: Debt, Convertibles Stock (No Dividends), Stock, Dividends. Investment returns on Wefunder vary by investment type, with dividends more typical in later-stage, non-tech businesses.
Returns on Republic depend on the success of invested projects, companies, or funds, with potential payouts varying by investment terms.
Investments on Wefunder are long-term, with an average return period of around seven years, particularly for convertible notes or SAFEs.
Investments on Republic typically have a long-term horizon, often requiring several years to over a decade before potential returns are realized.
Individuals 18 and older can invest on Wefunder, regardless of whether they are accredited or non-accredited investors. Additionally, Wefunder allows investments through entities.
Anyone 18 or older can invest on Republic, with specific eligibility and investment limits varying by campaign. International investors can participate in many offerings, subject to local laws and specific campaign terms.
The assets on Wefunder, primarily startups and small businesses, are highly volatile due to the uncertain success of these ventures and fluctuating market conditions.
Assets on Republic, like startups and private ventures, exhibit high volatility due to factors like market sentiment, regulatory changes, and business uncertainties. Valuation changes can be sudden and significant, reflecting the inherent risks and potential rewards of these types of investments.
Wefunder is regulated by the SEC and FINRA under Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg CF), requiring it to adhere to strict rules about investment limits, company fundraising, and disclosures.
Republic operates under SEC regulations like Reg CF, Reg A+, and Reg D, ensuring transparency and investor protection. Companies on Republic must adhere to disclosure and, in some cases, undergo financial audits or reviews.
Investments on Republic are not covered by traditional insurances or state guarantees like FDIC protection.
Wefunder investments typically do not offer dividends, as they are often in early-stage startups focusing on growth.
Dividends on Republic are not standard across all investments and depend on the specific agreement with each company. Some investments may offer dividends through revenue-sharing arrangements, but many startups prioritize reinvestment over distributing earnings.
On Wefunder, investors primarily see returns from liquidity events like acquisitions or IPOs, where investments may convert to cash or shares. After the first year, shares can be sold to any interested buyer, with Wefunder facilitating the transfer process. For debt investments or revenue shares, returns follow the agreed terms, like fixed repayments or revenue-based payouts.
On Republic, returns mainly come from liquidity events like acquisitions or IPOs, but these are uncertain and can take years. Selling shares directly is typically not possible within the first year due to federal restrictions, with few exceptions. Even after this period, the resale market is limited and subject to legal considerations.
Wefunder charges a one-time transaction fee of 2% for bank payments and 5.5% for credit card payments. For WeFunds, an administrative fee covers lifetime costs like filings and accounting, with no additional contributions required from investors.
Republic charges an administrative fee for investment commitments, typically 2%, with a minimum of $5 and a maximum of $300, varying by offering. This fee is refunded if an offering is canceled or withdrawn but not if the investor cancels their commitment.
Wefunder supports tax reporting for investors by providing Schedule K-1 forms for those invested through LLCs or SPVs, detailing taxable gains or losses. For investments receiving payments, such as revenue shares, Form 1099 may be issued to report income.
Republic does not provide tax documents or specific tax guidance for investments. Tax implications, such as for Crowd SAFE and Token DPA investments, depend on the investment's nature and liquidity events.