Alt: a table and chairs in front of a large window
Title: Cap Table Management

Discover the best cap table management software for startups in 2025. Compare top tools to efficiently manage your capital raises and equity with ease.

Introduction

Managing a startup’s equity can be a complex and time-consuming task. As your company grows, so does the intricacy of maintaining an accurate cap table. Investing in the right cap table management software is crucial for ensuring seamless equity management, compliance, and strategic financial planning. In this article, we compare the top cap table management tools for startups in 2025, helping you make an informed decision to support your business’s growth.

Why Cap Table Management Matters

A cap table (capitalization table) is a detailed record of a company’s equity ownership, including shareholders, their respective investments, and the value of their stakes. Effective cap table management is essential for:

Tracking Ownership Stakes: Clearly understanding who owns what percentage of the company.
Facilitating Fundraising: Presenting a clean and accurate cap table to potential investors.
Managing Equity Grants: Administering employee stock options and ensuring proper vesting schedules.
Maintaining Compliance: Adhering to regulatory requirements like 409A valuations.

Common Challenges

Startups often struggle with traditional equity management methods, such as spreadsheets, which can lead to:

Errors and Inconsistencies: Manual data entry increases the risk of mistakes.
Version Control Issues: Multiple stakeholders may cause discrepancies in cap table updates.
Time-Consuming Processes: Managing equity manually takes valuable resources away from core business activities.

Key Features to Look for in Cap Table Management Software

When selecting a cap table management tool, consider the following criteria to ensure it meets your startup’s needs:

1. Fast Onboarding

Choose software that allows quick setup and easy data migration from spreadsheets or other tools. Guided setup processes and automation features minimize manual data entry, ensuring you can start using the platform efficiently.

2. Ease of Use

An intuitive interface is crucial for all stakeholders, from founders to investors. Look for dashboards that provide clear visualizations of equity ownership and dilution, streamlined workflows for grant creation, and user-friendly navigation.

3. Comprehensive Equity Management Tools

Effective software should handle various aspects of equity management, including:

Equity Compensation: Manage different types of equity grants like stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), and preferred stock.
Vesting Schedules: Automate tracking of vesting periods for employees.
Ownership Structure: Maintain up-to-date records of all equity holders and their stakes.

4. Fundraising and Scenario Modeling

Advanced features like pre-money/post-money valuation modeling, SAFE and convertible note conversions, and scenario planning tools are essential for strategic fundraising efforts.

5. Security and Compliance

Ensure the software provides robust security measures, including encryption and customizable access controls. Compliance features should support essential regulatory requirements such as 409A valuations.

6. Affordability and Transparent Pricing

Evaluate the pricing structure to find a solution that fits your budget without hidden fees. Look for scalability options that allow you to upgrade as your company grows.

7. Quality Support

Responsive customer support is vital, especially when dealing with complex equity scenarios. Comprehensive resources like live chat, email support, tutorials, and documentation can enhance your experience.

Top Cap Table Management Software for Startups in 2025

1. Eqvista

Eqvista stands out with its comprehensive cap table management and unlimited 409A valuation services. Designed to streamline equity management for both startups and large businesses, Eqvista offers:

Features: Real-time valuations, customizable financial analyses, automated workflows, and seamless share management.
Pricing: Flexible plans to accommodate various business sizes, with free onboarding and training.

Ideal for: Startups seeking an all-in-one solution for equity management and valuation.

2. Carta

Carta remains a leading provider in the cap table management space, offering enterprise-level features tailored for startups and investors.

Features: Extensive equity management tools, compliance support, and investor relations features.
Pricing: Higher cost structure, which might be a barrier for early-stage startups.

Ideal for: Companies needing robust features and willing to invest in comprehensive equity management.

3. Shareworks by Morgan Stanley

Shareworks provides institutional-grade equity plan management, focusing on preparing companies for significant liquidity events.

Features: Multi-entity corporate structures, global equity programs, and compliance across complex organizations.
Pricing: Enterprise-level, suitable for IPO-ready companies.

Ideal for: Established startups gearing up for IPOs or large-scale fundraising.

4. Pulley

Pulley emphasizes simplicity and effectiveness for early-stage companies, offering essential tools for cap table management and fundraising.

Features: Fundraising tools, SAFEs, audit-compliant 409A valuations, and equity calculators.
Pricing: Competitive pricing with plans starting at $1,200/year.

Ideal for: Early-stage startups looking for user-friendly and affordable cap table management.

5. Ledgy

Ledgy is tailored for European startups, focusing on cross-border compliance and multi-country team management.

Features: Global equity programs, country-specific compliance, and support for US-based companies with EU teams.
Pricing: Growth plans start at €900/year.

Ideal for: European and global startups needing localized compliance and international equity management.

Why Choose Eqvista?

Eqvista is revolutionizing equity management with features designed for modern startups:

User-Friendly Interface: Simplifies complex equity concepts, making it accessible for all stakeholders.
Comprehensive Tools: From share issuance to real-time valuations, Eqvista covers all aspects of equity management.
Flexible Pricing: Free plans for early-stage startups, with scalable options as your business grows.
Dedicated Support: Expert assistance ensures smooth implementation and ongoing management.

Customer Testimonials:

“Cake becomes a very easy one-stop shop where we can update our cap table effortlessly.”
— Ellen Dinsmoor, COO of Vow

“It’s so much easier to do it on Cake.”
— Rachel Obenshain, President & Co-founder of Xeni

Conclusion

Choosing the right cap table management software is a pivotal decision for startups aiming to streamline their equity management processes. Tools like Eqvista, Carta, and Pulley offer diverse features tailored to different growth stages and business needs. By evaluating your startup’s specific requirements and growth trajectory, you can select a platform that not only meets your current needs but also scales with your company’s future.

Ready to simplify your equity management? Get started with Eqvista today!

Top Cap Table Management Software for Startups in 2025: Compare the Best Tools