Bringing an advisor onto your startup? Set clear expectations on scope, term and compensation (cash or equity). Generate a free draft.
An Advisor Agreement formalises the relationship with a startup advisor — what they’ll help with, for how long, and how they’re compensated (a small cash fee, or more commonly a modest equity/ESOP grant that vests over time). It also covers confidentiality and IP, and clarifies the advisor is not an employee.
Advisor equity is typically small (often a fraction of a percent to a couple of percent) and should vest, so the advisor earns it by actually helping.
Fill in the details below and generate a ready-to-use draft in seconds, then copy, download or print it.
Typically a small amount, often between a fraction of a percent and around 2% — depending on the advisor’s value and involvement, and it should vest over time.
Yes — vesting (e.g. over 1–2 years) ensures the advisor earns their equity by actually contributing, and protects you if the relationship ends early.
No, an advisor is an independent contractor providing occasional guidance. The agreement makes this clear.
Yes — some advisors take a modest cash fee, some take equity, some both. The generator lets you specify whichever you agree on.
A lawyer drafts it for your situation and explains what each clause commits you to.
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