Equity

Ownership in a company, expressed as a percentage. Investors receive equity in exchange for capital; employees may receive equity through options or grants.

Equity is your most valuable asset as a founder. Giving it away cheaply or carelessly is one of the most irreversible mistakes in startup building. Protect it early.

You own 100% of your bootstrapped business. You raise £100k from an angel for 15% equity. You now own 85%, but of a company that may be worth far more than before.