EqSeed

EqSeed operates as an online investment platform in Brazil, specializing in equity crowdfunding for startups and growing companies. The firm was established to bridge a critical funding gap in the Brazilian market, a space between initial seed funding from accelerators and larger investments from early-stage venture capital. Founded in 2014 by British mathematician Greg Kelly and American economist Brian Begnoche, the platform officially launched in September 2015. Kelly's background in London's capital markets for Lloyds Bank exposed him to the burgeoning UK equity crowdfunding scene, an idea he brought to Brazil. Begnoche, a resident of Rio de Janeiro since 2008, contributed a deep understanding of the local market and culture. In July 2024, co-founder Greg Kelly transitioned to the role of Executive Chairman, with Igor Monteiro, formerly the Chief Investment Officer, stepping into the CEO position.

The company facilitates connections between startups seeking capital and a broad network of investors. Functioning similarly to an investment bank, EqSeed analyzes companies, structures the investment offerings, and presents them to its investor base. For startups, it provides a streamlined, regulated channel to raise capital of up to R$15 million. For investors, it offers access to curated, high-growth-potential investment opportunities in private companies, a market traditionally difficult to access. The entire investment process is conducted online, from reviewing company details and financial projections to signing contracts via DocuSign. The platform operates on an "all or nothing" funding model, where a campaign must reach its target for the investment to be finalized, ensuring companies have sufficient capital to execute their business plans. The funds remain with the investor until the round is successful, at which point they are transferred directly to the startup.

EqSeed's revenue model is based on a success fee, charging a percentage of the total amount raised by the startup once a funding round is successfully completed. This model aligns the platform's interests with those of the investors, as it incentivizes the selection of quality offerings at fair valuations. The platform is known for its rigorous due diligence process, with less than 1% of applicant companies being selected to feature on the site. This curatorial approach has helped build trust with its investor community, which numbers over 75,000 registered users. As the first company of its kind authorized by Brazil's securities and exchange commission, the Comissão de Valores Mobiliários (CVM), EqSeed operates within a regulated framework, providing security for both entrepreneurs and investors.

Keywords: equity crowdfunding, startup investment, Brazil tech, venture capital, private equity, fintech, investment platform, capital raising, angel investment, CVM regulated, startup financing, online investing, early-stage companies, growth capital, due diligence, portfolio diversification, tech startups, agtech investment, financial services, market access