StartEngine
StartEngine
Description
StartEngine is one of the largest equity crowdfunding platforms in the US, helping startups raise $250K-$75M through Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg CF) and Regulation A+ offerings. Founded by Activision co-founder Howard Marks and serial entrepreneur Ron Miller, StartEngine has helped 500+ companies raise over $600 million. The platform is known for accepting a wider range of companies than competitors, including brick-and-mortar businesses and non-tech startups.
For ZHC builders, StartEngine offers flexibility and accessibility. Unlike highly selective platforms, StartEngine works with companies at various stages and industries. They also offer StartEngine Secondary — allowing your investors to trade shares, providing liquidity. The platform charges no upfront fees, taking payment only if you successfully raise.
Eligibility
Funding Options
Regulation Crowdfunding
- Raise up to $5M annually
- Open to all investors (accredited and non-accredited)
- Campaign duration: 60-180 days
- Most common for startups
Regulation A+
- Raise up to $75M
- More regulatory requirements
- For established companies
StartEngine Secondary
- Trading platform for shares
- Provides liquidity to investors
- Available post-fundraising
Requirements
- US-based company
- Good standing with state of incorporation
- No disqualifying criminal/regulatory history
- Audited financials for raises over $1.07M
Acceptable Company Types
- Technology and software
- Consumer products
- Food and beverage
- Real estate
- Entertainment and media
- Brick-and-mortar businesses
ZHC-Specific Fit
✅ Excellent for:
- Various industries (not just tech)
- Companies wanting broader investor base
- Startups seeking accessible crowdfunding
- Building community of investor-advocates
- Companies interested in secondary trading
❌ Poor fit if:
- Need VC brand validation
- Concerned about large cap table
- Foreign company (US only)
- Want highly curated investor experience
Application Process
Campaign Steps
| Step | Timeline | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Week 1 | Submit company information |
| Review | Week 2-3 | StartEngine screening |
| Onboarding | Week 4-6 | Legal setup, financial review |
| Campaign build | Week 6-10 | Create page, video, marketing plan |
| Launch | Week 10+ | Campaign goes live |
| Raise | 60-180 days | Active fundraising |
| Close | Final | Funds disbursed, securities issued |
Costs
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Platform fee | 7-10% of funds raised |
| Equity fee | 0-2% equity (optional) |
| Processing | ~3.5% payment processing |
| Legal setup | Included |
| Upfront cost | $0 (only pay if successful) |
What You Get
- Access to StartEngine's investor base
- Campaign page and payment processing
- Legal document templates
- Compliance handling
- Marketing tools and support
- Secondary trading option (post-raise)
- Investor communications dashboard
- PR and media opportunities