Best 20 Cap Table Management Platforms 2026

If you are a founder, CFO or investor in the UK startup and scale-up scene, you know messy cap tables lead to valuation headaches, dilution surprises and compliance nightmares. Over the past decade, dozens of equity management tools have sprung up to tame share registers, model scenarios and facilitate investor reporting. 

After evaluating product sheets, feature matrices and real-world user feedback, I’ve distilled the Best 20 Cap Table Management Platforms you should consider in 2026. This list is tailored for fast-growing UK companies, from early-stage startups to Series C+ ventures.

In this guide you’ll find platforms that handle: share issuance and transfers, scenario modelling, UK tax compliance (EMI/SEIS/RSUs), board reporting and investor portals. The list spans simple equity trackers through to full-blown governance suites.

What is Cap Table Management?

Cap table management is the process of tracking and modelling a company’s ownership structure. A cap table records shareholders, types of securities (shares, options, warrants), vesting schedules and ownership percentages. 

A good platform helps with valuation modelling, fundraising rounds, compliance reporting and investor communications. For UK companies, specific tax and legal documentation also matters (including EMI option schemes and HMRC filings).

Why It Matters for UK Startups

Without a reliable cap table system:

• You risk errors in dilution calculations
• UK tax incentives like EMI can be mis-administered
• Valuations can be misreported to investors
• Fundraising negotiations slow down

Getting cap table management right can accelerate funding rounds and protect founders’ equity.

Quick Comparison Table

Platform	Best For	Pricing	Free Trial	Key Feature
Carta	Enterprise & VC	Custom	Yes	Audit-ready reporting
Capdesk	European startups	Subscription	Yes	UK/EU compliance
Shareworks	Mid-market	Custom	Yes	Global equity plans
eqvista	Small & early	Affordable	Yes	Easy cap table editing
Gust Equity Mgmt	Early stage	Tiered	Yes	Integrated with Gust
Pulley	Tech startups	Tiered	Yes	Scenario modelling
Ledgy	European scale-ups	Custom	Yes	Multi-jurisdiction
Cake Equity	Small UK firms	Affordable	Yes	EMI-friendly
Certent	Enterprise	Custom	No	Reporting & compliance
Shoobx	Legal + equity	Tiered	Yes	Built-in legal docs
Capshare	Growth	Custom	Yes	Waterfall analysis
EquityEffect	PE & VC	Custom	Yes	Portfolio reporting
Captable.io	Simple cap tables	Free/paid	Yes	Fast onboarding
Eshares	Tech startups	Custom	Yes	Secondary transactions
CapTableCloud	Startup focus	Low	Yes	Clean UX
Solium (Shareworks)	Corporates	Custom	Yes	Global equity mgmt
Vestd	UK founders	Subscription	Yes	EMI & tax workflows
Carta for Startups	Seed to Series B	Tiered	Yes	Founder-friendly
Ledgy for Angels	Angel coalitions	Tiered	Yes	Investor portal
Capdesk Pro	Complex equity	Custom	Yes	Advanced scenario tools

Best Cap Table Management Platforms

Here are the Best 20 Cap Table Management Platforms you should review in 2026, broken down by what they are best known for.

Carta – Institutional-Grade Equity Management

Carta is one of the most recognised cap table management platforms globally, trusted by thousands of venture-backed companies and investment firms. While it began in the US, it is increasingly used by UK startups preparing for institutional funding, complex share structures, and exit planning.

For UK founders raising Seed, Series A or beyond, Carta offers structured equity tracking, advanced modelling, and investor-ready reporting. However, its strongest compliance roots remain US-focused, which matters when evaluating EMI scheme management.

Key Features

Advanced Cap Table Tracking

Carta allows you to track ordinary shares, preference shares, convertible notes, SAFEs, warrants, and employee options in one structured system. Every issuance and transfer is logged with a full audit trail. For UK companies preparing for due diligence, this reduces legal friction and prevents spreadsheet errors.

Scenario Modelling & Dilution Forecasting

Carta’s modelling engine allows founders and CFOs to simulate funding rounds, option pool expansions, and note conversions. You can clearly see dilution impact before negotiations begin. When comparing Carta vs Capdesk, modelling depth is often a deciding factor.

Waterfall & Exit Analysis

If acquisition or IPO discussions are on the horizon, Carta’s waterfall modelling shows how proceeds are distributed across investor classes. It accounts for liquidation preferences and participation rights, making it useful for later-stage UK scale-ups.

Investor & Stakeholder Portal

Shareholders can log in to view holdings, vesting schedules, and official statements. This reduces admin for finance teams managing dozens of investors and employee shareholders.

Compliance & Reporting Tools

Carta produces structured reports suitable for audits and institutional investors. However, UK-specific EMI automation is not as native as platforms like Vestd or Capdesk. This is an important consideration for UK startups.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Recognised by VCs	UK tax features less native
Advanced modelling tools	Enterprise-level pricing
Strong waterfall analysis	Setup can be complex
Investor-ready reporting	May be excessive for early stage
Scales with funding rounds	Sales-led onboarding

Pricing

Carta pricing is customised based on:

• Company stage 
• Number of stakeholders 
• Funding raised 
• Feature requirements 

There is no simple checkout price. Most UK companies go through a sales process to receive a quote.

If pricing transparency is important, some Carta alternatives such as Pulley or Cake Equity may offer clearer tiered plans.

Best For Venture-Backed UK Startups

Carta is best suited for:

• Series A and beyond — Managing complex preference structures 
• VC-backed companies — Aligning with institutional investor expectations 
• Finance teams — Requiring detailed modelling and audit documentation 
• Companies preparing for exit — Needing waterfall scenario analysis 

If you are pre-seed with a simple founder structure, you may not need this level of infrastructure yet.

How to Use Carta Effectively in the UK

Before launching a funding round:

• Audit all historic share issuances 
• Clean vesting schedules 
• Model multiple valuation scenarios 
• Export updated cap table reports 
• Review option pool expansion impact 

Doing this before investor conversations prevents costly surprises.

Best Alternate Tool

Capdesk — A strong UK-focused cap table management platform with built-in EMI scheme workflows and clearer regional compliance support.

Capdesk – UK & European Equity Management Specialist

Capdesk is one of the most recognised cap table management platforms for UK and European startups. Unlike US-first systems, Capdesk was built with European compliance frameworks in mind, making it particularly attractive for UK founders managing EMI schemes and cross-border investors.

For UK startups raising Seed through Series B, Capdesk offers structured equity tracking, employee share scheme management, and funding round modelling with stronger regional alignment than many global competitors.

Key Features

UK-Focused Cap Table Tracking

Capdesk enables companies to manage ordinary shares, preference shares, convertible instruments, and employee share options within a structured digital cap table. Every issuance, transfer, and vesting event is logged clearly. For UK companies dealing with Companies House filings and investor reporting, this reduces manual spreadsheet work and legal risk.

EMI Scheme Management

One of Capdesk’s strongest advantages is EMI scheme workflow support. The platform assists with grant documentation, vesting schedules, and reporting obligations. When comparing Carta vs Capdesk, UK EMI automation is often where Capdesk stands out.

Funding Round Modelling

Capdesk includes scenario modelling tools that allow founders to simulate dilution across funding rounds. You can model valuation changes, option pool expansions, and new investor allocations before formal negotiations begin.

Employee & Investor Portal

Shareholders and employees can access a secure portal to view their holdings and vesting progress. This improves transparency and reduces repetitive administrative queries for finance teams.

Compliance & Governance Tools

Capdesk supports structured documentation aligned with UK and European regulations. Audit trails and structured reporting make it suitable for companies preparing for institutional investment or board-level scrutiny.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Strong UK compliance focus	Less globally dominant than Carta
EMI workflow support	Enterprise pricing for larger firms
Clean and intuitive interface	Modelling less advanced than Carta
Good for EU structures	Fewer US-specific features
Transparent stakeholder portal	May exceed needs of micro startups

Pricing

Capdesk pricing is generally subscription-based and varies depending on:

• Number of stakeholders                                                                                                                                                                                              
• Company stage
• Feature tier
• Complexity of share structure

Unlike some global platforms, Capdesk often provides clearer tiered plans for startups. However, larger scale-ups may move into custom pricing brackets.

If pricing clarity is a priority, Capdesk is often viewed more favourably than Carta pricing models.

Best For UK & European Startups Managing EMI Schemes

Capdesk is best suited for:

• UK startups issuing EMI options — Requiring structured tax-compliant workflows
• Seed to Series B companies — Managing growing investor lists
• European scale-ups — Handling cross-border equity structures
• Founders wanting regional alignment — Preferring EU-first compliance systems

If your investor base is heavily US-focused, Carta may feel more familiar to your VCs. But for UK-centric operations, Capdesk often aligns more closely with regulatory requirements.

How to Use Capdesk Effectively in the UK

Before launching or expanding an EMI scheme:

• Upload full shareholder registry
• Structure vesting schedules properly
• Configure EMI grant documentation
• Model dilution for upcoming funding rounds
• Share access with legal and finance teams

Using Capdesk proactively before a funding round keeps documentation aligned with HMRC expectations.

Best Alternate Tool

Vestd — Another UK-focused cap table management platform known for strong EMI scheme automation and founder-friendly pricing.:

Shareworks – Institutional-Grade Equity Management

Shareworks by Morgan Stanley is a leading platform for cap table management, equity administration, and compliance. Designed for global startups and growth-stage companies, Shareworks helps UK businesses maintain accurate shareholder records, manage EMI schemes, and generate investor-ready reports. Its combination of detailed scenario planning, employee portals, and compliance features makes it a strong contender for companies preparing for institutional funding or complex exit events.

Key Features

Cap Table & Equity Tracking

Shareworks tracks ordinary shares, preference shares, options, warrants, and convertible instruments in a single, structured system. Each issuance, transfer, or vesting event is logged with a full audit trail. UK founders and CFOs benefit from reduced manual errors and accurate reporting for due diligence. This capability is particularly useful when comparing Shareworks vs Carta for structured cap table management.

Scenario Planning & Dilution Forecasting

Shareworks provides a modelling engine to simulate funding rounds, option pool expansions, and note conversions. Finance teams can visualise dilution impact before investor discussions. This clarity enables strategic planning and prevents unexpected ownership changes during negotiations, giving UK companies confidence in complex fundraising scenarios.

Waterfall & Exit Analysis

The waterfall tool calculates distributions for IPOs or acquisitions, considering shareholder classes, liquidation preferences, and participation rights. Scale-ups approaching exits gain transparency on potential outcomes, which is essential for investor reporting and decision-making. For UK founders, this feature is crucial when planning exit strategies or negotiating with institutional investors.

Employee & Investor Portal

Shareworks offers a self-service portal for employees and investors to access holdings, vesting schedules, and official documents. This reduces administrative overhead, especially for startups managing multiple shareholders. The portal enhances communication efficiency, keeping stakeholders informed without burdening finance teams.

Compliance & Reporting

Shareworks supports UK-specific equity compliance, including EMI scheme administration and reporting. Audit-ready documentation ensures companies meet regulatory requirements and satisfy institutional investors. Reporting is structured and professional, giving finance teams confidence in the accuracy and legality of their equity operations.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Global recognition	Interface can feel complex
Strong cap table tracking	Pricing can be high for early stage
Scenario planning & modelling	Implementation requires setup
Audit-ready reports	May be more than needed for small teams
Employee self-service portal	Customer support can be slow

Pricing

Shareworks pricing is customised based on:

• Company stage 
• Number of stakeholders 
• Features required 

UK startups typically engage with the sales team to receive a quote. For companies seeking simpler or more transparent tiered pricing, Capdesk or Pulley may be considered.

Best For UK Scale-Ups & Venture-Backed Startups

• Companies preparing for Seed to Series B rounds needing structured equity tracking 
• Firms with EMI schemes and multiple employee shareholders 
• Finance teams requiring detailed reporting and modelling 
• Businesses planning exits or fundraising events 

Startups at the pre-seed stage with simple founder structures may not need the full Shareworks platform.

How to Use Shareworks Effectively in the UK

• Audit all historical share issuances 
• Update and verify vesting schedules 
• Model multiple funding scenarios 
• Generate updated cap table reports 
• Ensure EMI scheme compliance and UK tax considerations 

Executing these steps before investor conversations prevents administrative errors and unexpected complications.

Best Alternate Tool

Capdesk – A UK-focused cap table and equity management platform with built-in EMI scheme workflows, clear compliance reporting, and simpler tiered pricing for startups.

Eqvista – Institutional-Grade Cap Table and Equity Management

Eqvista is a robust cap table management and equity tracking platform designed for startups, private companies, and investors. While widely used in the US, Eqvista is increasingly adopted by UK startups preparing for Seed, Series A, or later funding rounds.

 It allows founders, CFOs, and finance teams to manage complex equity structures, track shareholder ownership, and generate investor-ready reports. Eqvista combines transparency, compliance, and scenario planning to help UK companies reduce legal friction and simplify equity management.

Key Features

Advanced Cap Table Management

 Eqvista allows you to track ordinary shares, preference shares, SAFEs, convertible notes, warrants, and employee stock options in a structured digital system. Every issuance, transfer, or cancellation is logged with a full audit trail, reducing the risk of spreadsheet errors and easing due diligence for UK investors.

Scenario Modelling & Dilution Forecasting

With Eqvista’s scenario modelling tools, founders can simulate fundraising rounds, option pool increases, or note conversions. This shows the potential dilution for each shareholder before negotiations begin. Compared with Carta vs Eqvista, Eqvista offers simpler UK-specific modelling suitable for early to mid-stage startups.

Waterfall & Exit Analysis

 Eqvista supports acquisition and IPO scenario modelling, showing how proceeds will be distributed across different shareholder classes. Liquidation preferences and participation rights are included, making it a practical tool for companies preparing for exit planning in the UK.

Investor & Employee Portal

 Shareholders and employees can securely access their holdings, vesting schedules, and official statements via an online portal. This reduces administrative overhead for finance teams managing multiple investors or employee equity plans.

Compliance & Reporting Tools

 Eqvista produces structured reports suitable for audits, HMRC submissions, and institutional investors. While UK EMI scheme support is more tailored than some US-focused platforms, Eqvista still provides sufficient compliance tools for most UK startups.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Intuitive interface	Limited advanced modelling for complex US structures
UK-friendly EMI support	Enterprise-level pricing for larger companies
Detailed audit trail	Some features require paid plans
Scenario and exit modelling	Fewer integrations than Carta
Shareholder portal	Customisation limited for very complex cap tables

Pricing

Eqvista pricing is flexible depending on company size and equity complexity:

• Free plan – Basic cap table management, up to 25 stakeholders 
• Growth plan – Advanced reporting, unlimited stakeholders, scenario modelling 
• Enterprise plan – Custom features, audit-ready reports, dedicated support 

UK companies typically receive a quote based on the number of shareholders, fundraising rounds, and required compliance features.

Best For Early-Stage Startups and Teams Managing Equity & Exits

Eqvista is ideal for:

• Early-stage UK startups — managing founder equity and early investors 
• Seed and Series A companies — preparing for formal funding rounds 
• Finance teams — needing clear reporting for audits and HMRC compliance 
• Founders planning exits — scenario planning for IPOs or acquisitions 

For very simple pre-seed structures, Eqvista may be more than required.

How to Use Eqvista Effectively in the UK

• Audit all historical share issuances 
• Maintain clean vesting schedules 
• Model multiple fundraising and dilution scenarios 
• Generate investor-ready reports before negotiations 
• Review option pool expansion impacts 

These steps reduce costly errors during fundraising and ensure accurate UK compliance.

Best Alternate Tool

Capdesk – A UK-focused cap table platform with built-in EMI scheme management and strong local compliance support. For companies focused on HMRC-compliant EMI plans, Capdesk is often a preferred alternative.

Gust – Startup-Focused Equity Management

 Gust is a cap table and equity management platform designed for startups, investors, and early-stage companies, with growing adoption among UK founders. While it started as a US-based platform, its simple, founder-friendly interface makes it attractive for UK startups preparing for seed or Series A rounds, managing stock options, and maintaining clean equity records. Gust is particularly useful for early-stage companies looking for straightforward cap table management without the complexity of enterprise tools.

Key Features

Cap Table & Equity Tracking

 Gust allows startups to track all equity types—ordinary shares, preference shares, SAFEs, convertible notes, and employee options—in one centralised system. Every issuance, transfer, or adjustment is logged for transparency. UK founders benefit from reducing spreadsheet errors and having an organised record for due diligence.

Employee Option Plans

 Founders can create, manage, and issue employee stock options and warrants. Gust provides vesting schedules, exercise tracking, and transparent reporting for employees, making it easier to communicate ownership and incentives. While not as UK-specific as Vestd for EMI compliance, it covers most standard option needs.

Fundraising & Investment Tracking

Gust helps track fundraising rounds, commitments, and investor information. Founders can issue virtual term sheets, model funding scenarios, and maintain investor-ready records. Its simplicity makes it ideal for early-stage UK startups raising Seed or Series A rounds.

Reporting & Audit Trail

 Gust generates cap table snapshots, equity allocation reports, and audit-ready documentation. While more lightweight than Carta or Capdesk, it provides sufficient reporting for early-stage investors and legal checks.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Simple, user-friendly interface for founders 
• Tracks multiple security types and equity allocations 
• Employee option management included 
• Affordable for early-stage startups 
• Quick setup, minimal onboarding friction 

Cons

• UK EMI automation is limited compared to Vestd or Capdesk 
• Advanced modelling and scenario planning are basic 
• Less suited for complex Series B+ structures 
• Fundraising and compliance features are not as deep as Carta 

Pricing

 Gust pricing is generally straightforward and tiered:

• Free or low-cost options for early-stage startups 
• Paid plans scale based on number of stakeholders and cap table complexity
  Unlike Carta, Gust offers clear upfront pricing for small UK startups. 

Best For Early-Stage UK Startups

 Gust is best suited for:

• Seed to Series A startups — Managing simple equity and early investors 
• Founders — Keeping a clean, audit-ready cap table without enterprise complexity 
• Employee stock option management — Communicating ownership clearly to team members 
• Startups raising their first rounds — Offering investor-ready visibility 

For very complex structures, multiple preference shares, or later-stage rounds, Carta or Capdesk may be more appropriate.

How to Use Gust Effectively in the UK

 Before raising capital:

• Audit existing shares and SAFEs 
• Set up employee option plans with clear vesting 
• Model funding scenarios manually for transparency 
• Maintain updated cap table snapshots for investors 

Best Alternate Tool

 Capdesk — A UK-focused cap table platform with strong EMI scheme support and detailed compliance features, better suited for startups preparing for institutional funding.

Pulley – Modern Equity Management for Scaling Startups

Pulley is a cap table and equity management platform built for venture-backed startups that want clean equity records, investor-ready reporting, and structured option management from day one. While Pulley is US-based, it is increasingly used by UK founders with US holding companies or those raised from US venture capital firms.

Pulley positions itself between lightweight tools and heavy enterprise platforms like Carta. It is designed for startups moving from Seed to Series B, where equity structures become more complex and investor scrutiny increases.

Key Features

Cap Table & Equity Management

 Pulley allows companies to manage ordinary shares, preferred shares, SAFEs, convertible notes, warrants, and employee stock options in one central dashboard. Every transaction is logged with a full audit trail. For UK founders operating a Delaware parent, this ensures investor-ready documentation without spreadsheet errors.

Advanced Scenario Modelling

 Pulley includes detailed pro forma modelling tools that simulate funding rounds, dilution, and option pool adjustments. Founders can test different valuation scenarios before negotiating a term sheet. This is particularly useful during Seed and Series A rounds when ownership percentages materially impact control and future dilution.

409A Valuations & Compliance Support

 For US entities, Pulley integrates 409A valuation services and board consent workflows. While UK EMI scheme automation is not its core strength, companies with US option plans benefit from built-in compliance documentation and valuation tracking.

Employee Equity Portal

 Employees receive access to a clear dashboard showing vested shares, exercise windows, and ownership percentages. This reduces confusion and improves transparency around stock option plans. It also minimises back-and-forth questions during funding rounds or exits.

Investor Reporting & Board Management

 Pulley provides share certificates, cap table snapshots, waterfall analysis, and board approvals. Compared to simpler tools, its reporting capabilities are more detailed, which makes due diligence smoother during venture rounds.

Pros & Cons

Pros
Strong scenario modelling for venture-backed startups
Clean, modern interface
Integrated 409A valuation support
Detailed investor reporting tools
Scales well from Seed to Series B

Cons
Limited native UK EMI scheme automation
Pricing higher than entry-level tools
Best suited for US entities or Delaware holding companies
May be too advanced for very early pre-seed startups

Pricing

Pulley pricing is tiered based on stakeholder count and feature access.

• Starter plans typically begin with early-stage pricing suitable for Seed startups.
•  Growth plans increase based on complexity and number of shareholders.
• Custom pricing available for later-stage companies.

While not the cheapest option for UK startups, it offers stronger modelling and reporting than basic cap table software.

Best For Venture-Backed UK Startups with US Structures

Pulley is best suited for:

• UK founders with a Delaware parent company raising US venture capital.
•  Seed to Series B startups needing advanced dilution modelling.
•  Companies preparing for institutional VC due diligence.
•  Startups issuing standard US stock option plans.

If your company operates purely under UK EMI schemes without US exposure, Vestd or Capdesk may provide better local compliance automation.

How to Use Pulley Effectively

Before fundraising:

•  Input all SAFEs and convertible notes accurately
•  Model multiple valuation scenarios before term sheet negotiations
•  Maintain updated cap table snapshots for board meetings
•  Review dilution impact of option pool increases
•  Use the employee portal to ensure option transparency prior to closing a round

Best Alternate Tool

Carta – A widely adopted equity management platform with broader global compliance capabilities and deeper institutional investor integrations, though typically at a higher price point.

Ledgy – Equity Management Built for European Scaleups

Ledgy is an equity management platform designed for European startups and scaleups that need structured cap table management, employee participation tracking, and compliance support across multiple jurisdictions. Headquartered in Switzerland, Ledgy has strong adoption across the UK and Europe, particularly among venture-backed startups from Seed through Series C and beyond.

Unlike entry-level cap table tools, Ledgy is built for companies managing complex funding rounds, growth-stage reporting, and international employee equity schemes. It is especially attractive for UK startups raising from European VCs or operating cross-border teams.

Key Features

Cap Table & Equity Tracking

 Ledgy centralises ordinary shares, preference shares, convertible instruments, warrants, and employee option pools in one structured dashboard. Transactions are recorded with full audit history, reducing reliance on spreadsheets. For UK startups preparing for institutional due diligence, this provides investor-ready clarity and version control.

Advanced Scenario Modelling

 Ledgy allows founders and CFOs to model funding rounds, liquidation preferences, and dilution outcomes. This includes waterfall analysis and exit simulations. Companies negotiating Series A or Series B terms benefit from clear ownership projections before signing a term sheet.

Employee Participation & ESOP Management

 Ledgy supports structured employee equity programmes, including vesting schedules, cliff periods, and grant documentation. Employees receive personalised dashboards showing vesting progress and ownership value. While not as EMI-specialised as Vestd, Ledgy supports UK-compliant option structures and cross-border equity participation.

Compliance & Legal Workflows

The platform integrates legal documentation, board approvals, and share issuance workflows. For UK and EU startups managing multiple jurisdictions, this reduces manual coordination with lawyers and finance teams. Ledgy also supports data room exports for audits and fundraising.

Investor & Stakeholder Reporting

 Ledgy provides detailed cap table snapshots, downloadable reports, and exit modelling tools. Investors gain structured visibility into ownership percentages and liquidation outcomes. Compared to lighter tools, Ledgy offers stronger reporting for growth-stage companies.

Pros & Cons

Pros
Strong European compliance focus
Advanced modelling and waterfall analysis
Clean interface suitable for scaleups
Cross-border equity support
Trusted by EU venture-backed startups

Cons
Higher pricing than early-stage tools
May be excessive for very small pre-seed startups
EMI automation less specialised than UK-only providers

Pricing

Ledgy pricing is typically customised based on company stage, number of stakeholders, and feature requirements.

• Starter plans for early-stage companies
•  Growth pricing for Series A to C startups
•  Custom enterprise tiers for later-stage scaleups

While pricing is higher than basic cap table software, the reporting and modelling capabilities justify the cost for companies with complex equity structures.

Best For UK and European Venture-Backed Scaleups

Ledgy is best suited for:

• UK startups raising from European VCs
•  Series A to Series C companies with multiple preference classes
•  Scaleups with cross-border employees
• Finance teams requiring structured reporting and exit modelling

For early-stage UK startups with simple EMI schemes, Vestd or Capdesk may provide a more cost-effective solution.

How to Use Ledgy Effectively in the UK

Before a funding round:
Ensure all historic share issuances are accurately recorded
Model dilution and liquidation preferences prior to term sheet negotiation
Maintain updated board approvals and documentation within the system
Use employee dashboards to clarify vesting before major announcements

Best Alternate Tool

Pulley – A strong option for UK founders operating a Delaware parent company and raising US venture capital, with deeper 409A valuation integrations.

Cake Equity – Simple Equity Management for Growing Startups

Cake Equity is a cap table management platform built specifically for early-stage startups that want clarity without complexity. Unlike enterprise-heavy systems, Cake Equity focuses on simplicity, clean reporting, and transparent pricing.

For UK founders managing Seed rounds, angel investors, or employee option pools, Cake Equity provides structured equity tracking without overwhelming finance teams. It is particularly attractive for startups that want visibility over ownership without entering a lengthy sales process.

While not as institutionally embedded as Carta, Cake Equity has gained traction globally due to its ease of use and transparent pricing structure.

Key Features

Digital Cap Table Management

Cake Equity allows you to track ordinary shares, preference shares, convertible notes, SAFEs, and employee option plans within a structured dashboard. Every issuance and transaction is recorded with a clear audit trail. For UK startups moving away from spreadsheets, this reduces errors and simplifies investor reporting.

Employee Share Scheme Tracking

Cake Equity supports option vesting schedules, cliffs, and employee equity grants. UK startups running EMI schemes can track grants and vesting milestones within the platform, although it may not offer the same native HMRC automation depth as Capdesk.

Scenario Modelling & Dilution Forecasting

Founders can model fundraising rounds, valuation changes, and option pool expansions. The platform provides visual dilution insights so you understand ownership impact before signing term sheets. When comparing Cake Equity vs Carta, modelling is simpler but more accessible for early-stage teams.

Investor Reporting Dashboard

Investors receive structured summaries of their holdings and transaction history. This reduces email back-and-forth and ensures transparency during funding rounds. For UK companies raising capital from angels or syndicates, this clarity builds credibility.

Transparent Pricing Structure

Unlike sales-led enterprise tools, Cake Equity offers clear tiered pricing based on stakeholder count. For founders who want predictable costs, this makes budgeting easier compared to platforms with customised quotes.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Transparent pricing	Less advanced modelling than Carta
Easy setup	Limited enterprise features
Founder-friendly interface	Fewer integrations
Good for early-stage	Not ideal for complex VC structures
Clear investor dashboard	UK EMI automation not fully native

Pricing

Cake Equity uses a tiered pricing model based on the number of stakeholders.

• Starter Plan – Suitable for small founder teams 
• Growth Plan – Includes advanced reporting and modelling 
• Scale Plan – Designed for larger shareholder groups 

Pricing is publicly listed, which appeals to UK startups seeking cost certainty. There is no heavy sales onboarding process, unlike some institutional platforms.

Best For Transparent Equity Management

Cake Equity is best suited for:

• Pre-seed and Seed UK startups — Managing founder equity and early investors 
• Angel-backed companies — Tracking simple preference share structures 
• Small finance teams — Needing straightforward cap table oversight 
• Startups wanting pricing transparency — Avoiding enterprise-level negotiations 

If you are preparing for Series B with layered liquidation preferences and complex investor rights, you may eventually require a more advanced platform.

How to Use Cake Equity Effectively in the UK

Before raising capital:

• Audit historic share issuances 
• Ensure vesting schedules are accurately recorded 
• Model dilution scenarios before investor meetings 
• Prepare updated cap table exports 
• Review option pool size ahead of negotiations 

Doing this prevents disputes and ensures clarity during due diligence.

Best Alternate Tool

Capdesk – A UK-focused cap table management platform with strong EMI scheme workflows and deeper regional compliance support. For startups heavily reliant on EMI tax advantages, Capdesk may be the better fit.

Certent – Enterprise Equity Management for Complex Organisations

Certent is an enterprise-grade equity management and financial compliance platform designed for large private companies, pre-IPO businesses, and publicly listed organisations. Unlike lightweight cap table tools aimed at early-stage startups, Certent focuses on governance, regulatory reporting, and complex equity administration.

For UK scale-ups preparing for IPO, multinational firms managing global employee share plans, or finance teams dealing with advanced accounting standards, Certent provides structured oversight and compliance infrastructure. It is particularly strong in financial reporting alignment with IFRS and US GAAP, which is critical for cross-border businesses.

While smaller startups may find it excessive, Certent becomes highly relevant once equity structures, reporting obligations, and audit requirements increase in complexity.

Key Features

Advanced Cap Table Administration

Certent supports complex share structures including ordinary shares, preference shares, RSUs, PSUs, convertible instruments, and global employee equity plans. Every transaction is logged within a controlled system designed for audit readiness. For UK companies preparing for institutional investment or IPO scrutiny, this significantly reduces governance risk.

Financial Reporting & IFRS Compliance

One of Certent’s core strengths is equity compensation accounting under IFRS 2 and ASC 718. Finance teams can produce structured expense reports, fair value calculations, and disclosures suitable for auditors and regulatory bodies. Compared with Certent vs Carta, Certent is often preferred for deep accounting integration.

Global Equity Plan Management

Certent supports multinational employee share schemes across jurisdictions. UK companies operating subsidiaries abroad can administer grants, vesting schedules, and compliance reporting centrally. This is valuable for companies with cross-border payroll and tax exposure.

Disclosure Management & Regulatory Reporting

Certent includes disclosure management tools aligned with public company requirements. This feature becomes critical for UK businesses planning AIM listings or full IPO processes, where reporting precision is non-negotiable.

Scenario Modelling & Waterfall Analysis

For companies approaching liquidity events, Certent provides modelling tools to simulate funding rounds, acquisitions, and exit proceeds distribution. Liquidation preferences and participation rights are factored into the analysis, supporting strategic planning.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Strong IFRS reporting tools	Not suitable for early-stage startups
IPO-ready infrastructure	Enterprise-level pricing
Global equity plan support	Complex onboarding process
Audit-focused architecture	Overkill for simple cap tables
Advanced disclosure management	Requires finance team involvement

Pricing

Certent pricing is customised based on:

• Company size 
• Number of equity holders 
• Reporting requirements 
• Global plan complexity 

There is no public pricing page. UK companies typically engage in a sales consultation to determine scope and cost. This places Certent firmly in the enterprise category rather than the startup-friendly pricing tier occupied by tools like Cake Equity.

Best For Pre-IPO and Public Companies Requiring Advanced and Financial Reporting

Certent is best suited for:

• Pre-IPO UK scale-ups — Preparing for public markets 
• Public companies — Managing regulatory disclosures 
• Multinational organisations — Administering global equity plans 
• Finance teams — Requiring IFRS-compliant reporting 

If you are a Seed or Series A startup with a simple founder structure, Certent will likely exceed your current needs.

How to Use Certent Effectively in the UK

Before IPO preparation:

• Consolidate all historic equity transactions 
• Align accounting treatment with IFRS 2 standards 
• Model exit and liquidity scenarios 
• Prepare structured disclosures for regulatory review 
• Coordinate with auditors early in the process 

Using Certent strategically during pre-IPO planning can prevent costly reporting revisions later.

Best Alternate Tool

Carta – A strong alternative for venture-backed UK companies that require institutional-grade cap table management without full public company reporting infrastructure.

Shoobx – Automated Equity and Corporate Governance Platform

Shoobx is an equity management and corporate governance platform designed for venture-backed startups that want structured cap table control, automated legal workflows, and board-level governance tools in one system. Now operating under the Fidelity Private Shares brand, Shoobx is typically used by US startups, but it is relevant for UK founders with Delaware holding companies or those raising US institutional capital.

Shoobx goes beyond basic cap table software. It combines equity tracking with built-in legal document automation and governance management, making it suitable for startups moving from Seed through Series C and preparing for complex funding rounds.

Key Features

Cap Table & Equity Management

 Shoobx centralises ordinary shares, preferred shares, SAFEs, convertible notes, warrants, and employee stock options in a structured digital ledger. Each issuance is tied to legal documentation and board approvals. For UK founders with US entities, this reduces compliance risk and ensures investor-ready accuracy during due diligence.

Automated Legal Documentation

 One of Shoobx’s core strengths is automated generation of legal documents tied directly to equity events. Share issuances, board consents, option grants, and financing rounds automatically produce standardised legal paperwork. This reduces manual coordination between founders and legal counsel.

Fundraising & Financing Workflows

 Shoobx supports priced equity rounds, convertible instruments, and investor onboarding. Term sheets and financing documents integrate into the platform’s governance workflow. Companies preparing for institutional VC rounds benefit from structured documentation and clean reporting.

Board & Corporate Governance Management

 The platform includes board resolutions, shareholder approvals, and governance record tracking. For companies scaling toward Series B and beyond, this provides structured compliance infrastructure that lightweight tools often lack.

Employee Equity & Option Management

 Shoobx manages vesting schedules, grant approvals, and option exercises. Employees receive clear documentation and digital records of their holdings. While not tailored specifically to UK EMI schemes, it works effectively for US stock option plans.

Pros & Cons

Pros
Integrated legal document automation
Strong governance and board workflow tools
Designed for venture-backed growth companies
Institutional-grade compliance structure
Suitable for complex financing rounds

Cons
Primarily US-focused
Less suited for UK-only EMI structures
Higher cost than basic cap table platforms
May be excessive for very early-stage startups

Pricing

Shoobx pricing is typically customised based on company stage and governance complexity.

• Early-stage packages for venture-backed startups
•  Higher tiers for companies with multiple financing rounds
•  Enterprise-level options for later-stage private companies

Compared to lightweight equity tools, Shoobx pricing reflects its deeper legal automation and governance capabilities.

Best For Venture-Backed Startups Preparing for Institutional Funding

Shoobx is best suited for:

Startups raising US institutional VC rounds
Companies needing automated legal documentation
Series A to Series C companies managing complex preferred structures
Boards requiring structured governance records

If your company operates solely under UK EMI schemes without US exposure, Vestd or Capdesk may provide more locally aligned compliance support.

How to Use Shoobx Effectively

Before fundraising:

•  Ensure all historic equity issuances are recorded with supporting documentation.
•  Align board approvals within the governance workflow
•  Use integrated legal templates for new financing rounds
•  Maintain up-to-date cap table exports for investor review

Best Alternate Tool

Carta – A widely adopted equity management platform offering strong reporting, global compliance features, and deeper integrations across private markets, often preferred by larger venture-backed companies.

Capshare – Equity Management with Investor Relations Focus

Capshare is an equity management platform designed to simplify cap table administration, fundraising workflows, and investor communication. Originally built for venture-backed startups, it later became part of Shareworks by Morgan Stanley, strengthening its institutional credibility.

For UK startups moving beyond spreadsheets and preparing for structured fundraising, Capshare offers organised equity tracking and investor reporting tools. While it is not as heavily focused on UK EMI schemes as some region-specific platforms, it provides solid infrastructure for managing shareholder data and funding rounds.

Capshare sits between early-stage simplicity tools and enterprise-heavy compliance systems, making it relevant for growing UK companies entering more formal funding environments.

Key Features

Structured Cap Table Management

Capshare allows you to record ordinary shares, preference shares, convertible notes, SAFEs, and employee options within a controlled dashboard. Transactions are logged with an audit trail, reducing manual errors and making due diligence smoother for UK investors.

For founders comparing Capshare vs Carta, Capshare often appeals to companies that want structured equity oversight without moving fully into enterprise-level complexity.

Fundraising Workflow Support

One of Capshare’s strengths is fundraising administration. It enables companies to manage investor data, track commitments, and document share issuances in a central system. For UK startups closing Seed or Series A rounds, this reduces administrative friction.

Shareholder & Investor Portal

Investors can log in to view their holdings, documents, and transaction history. This reduces ongoing communication overhead and keeps reporting consistent. For finance teams managing multiple angel investors, this centralised access improves transparency.

Scenario Modelling

Capshare includes basic modelling tools to forecast dilution during funding rounds or option pool expansions. While not as deep as some enterprise platforms, it offers sufficient visibility for early and mid-stage startups.

Compliance & Documentation Tools

Capshare provides structured documentation and reporting outputs useful during audits or fundraising. However, UK-specific EMI automation is not its core focus, which matters for companies heavily reliant on tax-advantaged option schemes.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Clean fundraising workflow tools	Limited UK EMI automation
Strong investor portal	Fewer advanced accounting tools
Backed by Morgan Stanley	Pricing not fully transparent
Audit-friendly reporting	May require onboarding support
Suitable for VC-backed firms	Not ideal for very small startups

Pricing

Capshare pricing is not publicly listed in simple tier form.

Costs typically depend on:

• Number of stakeholders 
• Funding stage 
• Required reporting features 
• Level of support 

UK companies generally need to request a quote. Compared with Cake Equity, Capshare pricing may feel less transparent but aligns with venture-backed growth companies.

Best For VC-Backed and Growth-Stage UK Companies Formalising Equity Governance

Capshare is best suited for:

• VC-backed UK startups — Managing structured funding rounds 
• Series A and Series B companies — Tracking preference shares and option pools 
• Finance teams — Requiring formal investor reporting 
• Companies scaling governance processes — Moving beyond spreadsheets 

If you are pre-seed with only founder shares, Capshare may be more infrastructure than you currently need.

How to Use Capshare Effectively in the UK

Before closing a funding round:

• Upload all historical share issuances 
• Verify investor details and subscription documents 
• Model dilution outcomes for negotiation clarity 
• Prepare structured cap table exports 
• Review employee option allocations 

Taking these steps before legal completion reduces surprises and strengthens investor confidence.

Best Alternate Tool

Eqvista – A flexible cap table management platform offering transparent pricing and accessible modelling tools, often suitable for early to mid-stage UK startups.

EquityEffect – Institutional Equity Administration for Growing Companies

EquityEffect is an equity management platform built for private companies that need structured cap table administration, investor reporting, and compliance oversight. It is designed for growing businesses that have moved beyond early-stage simplicity and require stronger governance processes.

For UK scale-ups managing multiple funding rounds, complex preference structures, or preparing for due diligence, EquityEffect offers centralised equity tracking with audit-ready controls. While it does not position itself as a lightweight startup tool, it provides structured oversight that becomes increasingly important as shareholder counts grow.

EquityEffect sits between mid-market and enterprise equity platforms, making it suitable for companies scaling operations and formalising investor relations.

Key Features

Structured Cap Table Administration

EquityEffect supports ordinary shares, preference shares, convertible instruments, warrants, and employee share schemes within a controlled dashboard. Every issuance, transfer, or cancellation is logged with a full transaction history. For UK companies preparing for institutional review, this reduces reliance on manual spreadsheets.

When comparing EquityEffect vs Carta, EquityEffect focuses strongly on governance controls rather than venture ecosystem branding.

Investor Reporting & Stakeholder Portal

The platform includes a secure portal where investors and shareholders can access holdings, transaction records, and equity documents. This centralised visibility reduces communication overhead and improves reporting consistency during funding rounds.

For UK companies with multiple angel investors or family offices, this structure strengthens transparency.

Compliance & Audit Controls

EquityEffect is built with audit-readiness in mind. It supports structured documentation workflows and reporting outputs suitable for legal review. For finance teams managing increasing compliance obligations, this control layer is essential.

Scenario Planning & Dilution Forecasting

Founders and CFOs can model funding rounds, option pool adjustments, and valuation changes. The modelling tools provide visibility into dilution before closing deals. While not as accounting-heavy as enterprise platforms, it provides sufficient strategic planning capability.

Employee Equity Tracking

EquityEffect enables tracking of employee option grants, vesting schedules, and performance conditions. UK companies running EMI or growth share plans can maintain structured oversight, although region-specific automation may require supplementary compliance processes.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Strong governance controls	Pricing not publicly listed
Structured investor portal	Not ideal for very early-stage startups
Audit-focused architecture	EMI automation limited
Suitable for mid-market firms	Onboarding may require guidance
Clean cap table tracking	Fewer integrations than larger ecosystems

Pricing

EquityEffect pricing is customised based on:

• Company size 
• Number of stakeholders 
• Complexity of equity structure 
• Reporting requirements 

There is no public tiered pricing page. UK companies typically request a consultation to define scope and cost. This positions EquityEffect closer to mid-market platforms rather than entry-level startup tools.

Best For Growth-Stage UK Companies Strengthening Equity Governance and Audit Readiness

EquityEffect is best suited for:

• Growth-stage UK companies — Managing multiple funding rounds 
• Mid-market firms — Formalising equity governance processes 
• Finance teams — Requiring structured audit documentation 
• Companies preparing for due diligence — Organising shareholder records 

If you are pre-seed with only founder shares, this level of governance may exceed your needs.

How to Use EquityEffect Effectively in the UK

Before entering due diligence or fundraising:

• Reconcile all historical share issuances 
• Confirm vesting schedules and grant documentation 
• Model dilution scenarios for negotiation clarity 
• Generate structured reports for investors 
• Review shareholder communications within the portal 

Taking these steps strengthens investor confidence and reduces transaction friction.

Best Alternate Tool

Certent – A more enterprise-focused platform suited to IPO-bound or publicly listed companies requiring deeper financial reporting integration.

Captable.io – Lightweight Equity Tracking for Early-Stage Startups

Captable.io is a simple cap table management platform built for early-stage startups that want clarity over ownership without enterprise-level complexity. It focuses on straightforward equity tracking, basic modelling, and shareholder visibility.

For UK founders managing Seed rounds, angel investments, or small employee option pools, Captable.io offers a practical alternative to spreadsheet-based cap tables. While it does not compete directly with enterprise systems like Certent or institutional platforms like Carta, it serves startups that need structure without heavy onboarding.

Captable.io is best positioned for founder-led companies that want digital equity records without committing to high pricing tiers or complex compliance modules.

Key Features

Simple Digital Cap Table Management

Captable.io allows startups to record ordinary shares, preference shares, convertible notes, and employee option grants within a clean dashboard. Transactions are logged in a structured format, reducing spreadsheet errors and version control issues.

For UK startups raising their first institutional capital, this creates a more professional presentation during due diligence.

Basic Dilution Modelling

Founders can simulate funding rounds and view dilution impact across shareholders. While not as detailed as advanced modelling tools found in Carta or Certent, it provides enough clarity for early-stage fundraising discussions.

When comparing Captable.io vs Eqvista, Eqvista typically offers deeper reporting, while Captable.io focuses on simplicity.

Shareholder Dashboard

Investors and employees can access a portal to view their holdings and vesting schedules. This central access reduces manual communication and improves transparency with angel investors.

For UK companies with a growing shareholder base, this feature prevents confusion around ownership percentages.

Vesting Schedule Tracking

Captable.io supports vesting schedules for employee equity and founder shares. UK companies running EMI schemes may need to pair this with external compliance advice, as region-specific tax automation may not be native.

Exportable Reports

The platform allows export of cap table summaries and shareholder breakdowns. These reports can be shared with legal advisors, accountants, and potential investors ahead of fundraising.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Easy to use	Limited enterprise features
Suitable for early-stage	Basic modelling depth
Clean interface	Limited UK-specific compliance tools
Shareholder access portal	Not ideal for complex VC structures
Lower pricing tier	Fewer integrations

Pricing

Captable.io typically offers straightforward pricing based on:

• Number of stakeholders 
• Feature access level 
• Reporting requirements 

It generally falls within entry-level to mid-tier pricing compared with larger platforms. UK founders looking for cost predictability often find it appealing.

For more advanced modelling and compliance functionality, alternatives such as Eqvista or Carta may be considered.

Best For  Early-Stage UK Startups Seeking Simple

Captable.io is best suited for:

• Pre-seed UK startups — Moving away from spreadsheets 
• Angel-backed companies — Tracking simple preference structures 
• Small teams — Needing clarity without complexity 
• Founders managing early employee equity — Recording vesting schedules 

If you are preparing for Series B with layered liquidation preferences, participating preference shares, and institutional reporting requirements, you may eventually outgrow this platform.

How to Use Captable.io Effectively in the UK

Before raising capital:

• Reconcile all share issuances and transfers 
• Record founder vesting schedules accurately 
• Model proposed funding rounds 
• Export updated cap table reports for investors 
• Review option pool allocations 

Taking these steps reduces errors and prevents disputes during legal review.

Best Alternate Tool

Cake Equity – A founder-friendly platform offering transparent pricing and stronger early-stage modelling tools, often preferred by UK startups seeking simplicity.

eShares by Carta – Institutional-Grade Equity Management Platform

eShares, now fully rebranded as Carta, began as one of the earliest digital cap table platforms for venture-backed startups. Today, Carta is one of the most widely adopted equity management systems globally, used by thousands of startups, growth-stage companies, and venture capital firms.

For UK founders, eShares through Carta is particularly relevant if you operate a Delaware parent company, raise US venture capital, or plan to scale internationally. It is built for companies that require structured compliance, detailed reporting, and investor-grade governance from Seed through late-stage funding.

Key Features

Cap Table & Equity Tracking

 eShares centralises ordinary shares, preferred shares, SAFEs, convertible notes, RSUs, and stock options in one secure dashboard. Every issuance is tied to documentation and approvals, creating a clean audit trail. This reduces spreadsheet risk and simplifies due diligence for institutional investors.

409A Valuations & Compliance

 Carta integrates 409A valuations directly within the platform. Companies can request, store, and track valuations without separate legal coordination. For UK founders operating US entities, this ensures compliance with IRS requirements for option pricing.

Fundraising & Scenario Modelling

 The platform allows companies to model priced rounds, simulate dilution, and run waterfall analyses. Founders can see the impact of liquidation preferences before signing a term sheet. Compared to lighter tools, Carta offers deeper modelling for complex venture rounds.

Employee Equity Management

 Employees access dashboards showing vesting schedules, exercise windows, and ownership percentages. Automated grant workflows and electronic signatures simplify administration. This improves transparency during hiring and retention conversations.

Investor & Fund Administration

 Carta extends beyond company cap tables. Venture funds use it for LP reporting, portfolio tracking, and fund administration. This ecosystem effect makes it attractive to startups backed by US institutional investors already using the platform.

Pros & Cons

Pros
Market leader in equity management
Strong compliance and reporting tools
Integrated 409A valuation services
Advanced modelling and waterfall analysis
Widely trusted by venture capital firms

Cons
Pricing higher than most alternatives
Primarily US-focused
Less specialised for UK EMI-only companies
Complex feature set for very early startups

Pricing

Carta pricing is tiered based on company stage and stakeholder count.

• Early-stage startup plans
•  Growth-stage plans for Series A to C
• Custom enterprise pricing for late-stage private companies

While Carta pricing is generally higher than entry-level cap table software, it reflects its institutional-grade compliance and reporting depth.

Best For Venture-Backed Startups with US Exposure

Shares by Carta is best suited for:

• UK founders with Delaware holding companies
•  Startups raising US institutional VC
•  Companies preparing for complex preferred share structures
•  Growth-stage businesses needing waterfall and exit modelling

For UK-only companies operating EMI schemes without US investors, Vestd or Capdesk may provide more locally aligned compliance functionality at a lower cost.

How to Use Carta Effectively

Before a funding round:

•  Ensure all SAFEs and convertible notes are accurately recorded
•  Request an updated 409A valuation before issuing options
•  Run dilution scenarios before finalising term sheets
•  Maintain board approvals within the governance workflow

Best Alternate Tool

Ledgy – A strong European-focused equity platform offering advanced modelling and cross-border compliance features, often preferred by UK and EU scaleups.

Captable.io – Simple, Transparent Cap Table Management 

Captable.io, often referred to as Cap Table Cloud in broader searches, is a lightweight equity management platform built for early-stage startups that want a clean, affordable way to manage their cap table without enterprise complexity.

It is particularly suitable for founders at pre-seed and seed stage who need structured equity tracking but are not yet dealing with multi-layered preferred share classes or institutional governance requirements. For UK startups managing simple share structures or early angel rounds, Captable.io offers a straightforward alternative to heavier platforms like Carta or Ledgy.

Key Features

Cap Table & Share Tracking

 Captable.io allows founders to manage ordinary shares, preference shares, SAFEs, convertible notes, and option pools within a centralised dashboard. Each issuance is recorded with transaction history, reducing reliance on spreadsheets. This is ideal for UK startups preparing for angel investment or early venture capital conversations.

Scenario Modelling

 The platform includes basic dilution modelling tools that allow founders to simulate funding rounds and option pool adjustments. While not as advanced as Pulley or Carta, it provides enough visibility for seed-stage negotiation planning.

Equity Grant Management

 Captable.io supports employee equity tracking, including vesting schedules and grant documentation. Founders can issue stock options and monitor exercise activity. It does not specialise in UK EMI automation, but it supports general option tracking.

Investor Reporting

 The system generates cap table summaries, ownership breakdowns, and exportable reports suitable for investor updates. This simplifies due diligence for early-stage rounds.

Document Storage & Audit Trail

 Founders can upload and store share certificates, agreements, and board approvals within the platform. Every equity action is time-stamped for accountability and transparency.

Pros & Cons

Pros
Affordable pricing for early-stage startups
Simple user interface
Quick onboarding process
Suitable for angel and seed rounds
Clear equity tracking without complexity

Cons
Limited advanced modelling tools
Not built specifically for UK EMI schemes
Less suitable for Series B and beyond
Fewer enterprise-level compliance features

Pricing

Captable.io pricing is generally structured to support early-stage companies.

• Free or low-cost entry plans for very small startups
•  Paid tiers based on number of stakeholders
•  Scalable pricing as equity structures grow

Compared to Carta pricing, Captable.io is significantly more affordable for small teams.

Best For Pre-Seed and Seed Startups

Captable.io is best suited for:

• Pre-seed founders issuing founder shares and early options
•  Seed-stage startups raising angel or small VC rounds
•  Companies wanting to move away from spreadsheets
•  Small teams needing simple equity reporting

If you are preparing for complex Series A negotiations with layered liquidation preferences, platforms like Pulley, Ledgy, or Carta may provide stronger modelling tools.

How to Use Captable.io Effectively

Before raising capital:

•  Record all founder shares accurately.
•  Input SAFEs and convertible notes as they are issued
•  Maintain updated cap table exports for investors
•  Track option grants and vesting schedules consistently

Using Captable.io early can prevent cap table clean-up issues during later institutional due diligence.

Best Alternate Tool

Ledgy – A stronger choice for UK and European scaleups managing more complex funding rounds and cross-border employee equity structures.

Solium Shareworks – Enterprise Equity Management for Global Public

Solium, now known as Shareworks by Morgan Stanley, is an enterprise-grade equity management and share plan administration platform built for public companies, late-stage private firms, and multinational organisations. It is widely adopted by listed companies and pre-IPO scale-ups that require structured governance, global compliance, and institutional-level reporting.

For UK companies preparing for IPO or operating internationally, Solium Shareworks provides deeper compliance infrastructure than startup-focused cap table tools. It is not designed for early-stage founder equity tracking. Instead, it supports complex global share plans, regulatory reporting, and cross-border employee equity administration.

Key Features

Global Equity Plan Administration

 Solium Shareworks manages stock options, RSUs, performance shares, and employee share purchase plans across multiple jurisdictions. It supports large employee populations and complex vesting structures. For UK public companies with global teams, this ensures consistent equity plan oversight.

Regulatory & Compliance Reporting

 The platform includes structured reporting aligned with IFRS and other accounting standards. Public companies benefit from automated disclosures, tax reporting workflows, and audit-ready documentation. This reduces manual coordination between finance, legal, and HR teams.

IPO & Pre-IPO Readiness Tools

 Solium supports companies preparing for public listing by maintaining detailed shareholder records, equity plan documentation, and compliance history. This provides institutional-grade record keeping ahead of IPO events.

Employee Portal & Brokerage Integration

 Employees can view their holdings, vesting schedules, and transaction history through a secure portal. Integration with Morgan Stanley brokerage services enables smoother share transactions and liquidity event processing.

Advanced Reporting & Analytics

 Finance teams gain access to detailed equity expense tracking, valuation reporting, and board-ready summaries. Compared to lighter tools like Cake Equity or Captable.io, Solium provides significantly deeper financial oversight.

Pros & Cons

Pros
Enterprise-level global equity administration
Strong IFRS and regulatory reporting capabilities
Designed for public and pre-IPO companies
Scalable for multinational organisations
Backed by Morgan Stanley infrastructure

Cons
Not suitable for early-stage startups
Higher implementation and licensing costs
Complex onboarding process
Overbuilt for simple founder cap tables

Pricing

Solium Shareworks pricing is typically customised based on company size, number of participants, and global plan complexity.

• Enterprise pricing model

•  Implementation and onboarding fees common
•  Ongoing administration costs based on scale

Compared to startup-focused equity tools, pricing reflects its enterprise positioning and regulatory depth.

Best For Public Companies and Pre-IPO Scale-Ups with Global Equity Plans

• Solium Shareworks is best suited for:
• Pre-IPO UK scale-ups preparing for listing
•  Public companies managing regulatory disclosures
•  Multinational organisations administering global equity plans
•  Finance and HR teams requiring structured accounting and compliance reporting

If you are a Seed or Series A startup with a simple founder cap table and limited employee equity complexity, platforms like Pulley, Ledgy, or Cake Equity are more appropriate for your stage.

How to Use Solium Shareworks Effectively

Before IPO or major liquidity events:

•  Ensure all historic grants and vesting records are reconciled
•  Align IFRS reporting outputs with finance team requirements
•  Maintain updated shareholder registers
•  Coordinate brokerage integrations for employee liquidity planning

Best Alternate Tool

Certent – A strong alternative for public companies and pre-IPO firms requiring structured equity administration and accounting compliance, with similar enterprise positioning.

Vestd – UK-Focused EMI & Share Scheme Management Platform

Vestd is a UK-based equity management platform built specifically for British startups that need EMI-compliant share schemes, founder equity tracking, and Companies House integration. Unlike global platforms built for US structures, Vestd is designed around UK corporate law and HMRC requirements.

It is particularly popular with pre-seed to Series A startups issuing EMI options and growth shares.

Key Features

EMI & CSOP Scheme Automation

Vestd automates Enterprise Management Incentive schemes and Company Share Option Plans. It supports HMRC notifications, grant documentation, and compliance tracking. For UK founders, this reduces legal admin and avoids common EMI filing errors.

Digital Cap Table Management

The platform tracks ordinary shares, growth shares, preference shares, and option pools in one centralised dashboard. Every share issuance and transfer is logged, reducing spreadsheet reliance.

Companies House Integration

Vestd syncs with Companies House filings, ensuring shareholder registers remain aligned with statutory records. This is a strong advantage over US-based tools.

Employee Equity Portal

Employees can log in to see vesting schedules, exercise windows, and share value estimates. This improves transparency and retention conversations.

Document Automation

Share agreements, board resolutions, and allotment documents are generated within the system, reducing legal coordination costs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Strong UK EMI automation
Companies House integration
Founder-friendly pricing
Simple onboarding
Built specifically for UK law

Cons

Limited US 409A functionality
Advanced modelling is basic
Less suited for complex international structures

Pricing

Vestd pricing is tiered based on company size and scheme complexity:

• Starter plans for early-stage companies
•  Growth plans for Series A startups
•  Custom pricing for larger organisations

Vestd pricing is transparent compared to Carta pricing, making it attractive to UK founders avoiding enterprise contracts.

Best For UK Startups Issuing EMI Options

Vestd is ideal for:

Pre-seed and Seed UK startups — Setting up EMI schemes correctly

 Founder-led businesses — Managing growth shares and vesting

 Startups raising angel rounds — Maintaining clean statutory records

 HR teams — Administering option grants compliantly

If you operate a Delaware holding company, Pulley or Carta may be more appropriate.

Best Alternate Tool

Capdesk Pro – For UK startups preparing for institutional VC with more complex reporting needs.

Carta for Startups – Institutional Equity Infrastructure from Day One

Carta for Startups is the entry-level offering of Carta, designed specifically for early-stage venture-backed companies. It provides institutional-grade cap table management, 409A valuations, and investor reporting from Seed stage onwards.

While Carta originated as eShares, it is now a global equity management platform used by thousands of venture-backed companies.

Key Features

Cap Table Management

Carta centralises SAFEs, preferred shares, ordinary shares, stock options, and convertible notes within a structured digital ledger. Every issuance is recorded with board approvals and documentation attached, reducing spreadsheet risk. This creates a clean audit trail that investors expect during Seed and Series A due diligence.

409A Valuation Services

Integrated 409A valuation requests allow startups to obtain and store compliant valuations directly inside the platform. This ensures option strike prices meet IRS requirements for US entities. For UK founders with Delaware holding companies, this removes the need to coordinate separate valuation providers.

Scenario Modelling

Founders can simulate priced rounds, option pool increases, and dilution impact before signing a term sheet. Waterfall modelling shows how liquidation preferences affect exit outcomes. This visibility strengthens negotiation positioning during venture capital discussions.

Board & Investor Reporting

Carta generates cap table snapshots, board consents, shareholder approvals, and waterfall analyses in structured formats. Reports are export-ready for investor updates and data rooms. This simplifies due diligence and reduces back-and-forth during financing rounds.

Employee Dashboard

Employees receive a secure portal displaying vesting schedules, grant details, and ownership percentages. Clear visibility into equity reduces confusion around option value and exercise windows. This improves communication between founders, HR, and team members.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Strong venture capital ecosystem
Institutional investor familiarity
Advanced modelling tools
Integrated compliance

Cons

Pricing higher than UK-focused tools
Not EMI-specific
Complex feature set for small startups

Pricing

• Carta pricing for startups is tiered by funding stage and stakeholder count:
• Free or discounted early-stage plans available

•  Paid growth plans for Series A and beyond
•  Custom enterprise contracts

Best For Venture-Backed Startups with US Exposure

Carta for Startups is suited to:

• UK founders with Delaware parents
•  Seed to Series B startups
•  Companies raising US institutional VC
•  Startups planning multi-class preferred structures

If you are UK-only and EMI-focused, Vestd may be more cost-effective.

Best Alternate Tool

Pulley – A strong competitor offering cleaner pricing and strong modelling.

Ledgy for Angels – Equity Visibility for Early Investors

Ledgy is widely known as a scale-up equity platform, but it also provides visibility tools that angel investors and syndicates value. While not an investor CRM, it allows angels to access structured cap tables and track portfolio equity in companies using Ledgy.

For UK and European angel networks investing in venture-backed startups, Ledgy provides cleaner visibility than spreadsheet-based reporting.

Key Features

Investor Access Portal

Ledgy provides a secure investor login where angels can view real-time ownership percentages, share classes, and dilution impact. Instead of waiting for quarterly PDF updates, investors access live cap table data. Exit modelling tools within the portal allow angels to understand potential returns under different valuation scenarios.

Cap Table Transparency

Startups can grant controlled, read-only access to specific investors without exposing sensitive internal data. This reduces manual reporting and repeated email updates. Angels gain visibility into share movements, new issuances, and funding rounds without relying on spreadsheets.

Scenario Modelling

Ledgy includes liquidation preference modelling that shows how preferred shares, participation rights, and seniority affect payout distribution. Angels can review how different exit valuations impact their ownership returns. This clarity is particularly valuable during follow-on rounds with layered preference structures.

Cross-Border Compliance Support

The platform supports European share classes and jurisdiction-specific equity structures. For UK angels investing across EU markets, this ensures clarity when dealing with varying corporate laws and shareholder rights. It simplifies oversight when portfolios span multiple countries.

Data Room Exports

Ledgy enables structured cap table exports and documentation downloads for due diligence. Angels participating in follow-on rounds can access clean, organised data directly from the system. This reduces friction during secondary transactions or institutional funding rounds.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Strong European compliance focus
Clear investor dashboards
Advanced modelling tools
Suitable for scale-ups

Cons

Higher cost for small startups
Not designed specifically for angel portfolio management
Less EMI-specific than UK-only tools

Pricing

Ledgy pricing is customised based on company stage and stakeholder count.

• Growth-stage plans dominate usage
•  Custom enterprise tiers available

Best For Angel-Backed European Startups

Ledgy works well for:

• UK startups raising European VC
•  Angels wanting structured equity transparency
•  Series A to C scaleups
•  Cross-border investor groups

If you are an angel investor managing a broad portfolio, AngelList or dedicated portfolio tools may complement Ledgy.

Best Alternate Tool

Carta – Broader ecosystem integration for US venture networks.

Capdesk Pro – Advanced UK Equity Management for VC-Ready Startups

Capdesk Pro is a UK-focused equity management platform designed for startups and scale-ups preparing for institutional investment. Unlike simpler cap table tools, Capdesk Pro combines robust compliance support, EMI scheme management, and investor reporting to meet the demands of venture-backed companies.

For UK founders raising Seed, Series A, or later rounds, Capdesk Pro provides a single system to manage equity, track shareholder ownership, model funding scenarios, and prepare investor-ready documentation. Its UK compliance features, particularly for EMI schemes and HMRC reporting, make it one of the most relevant platforms for local startups seeking structured governance and tax efficiency.

Capdesk Pro is trusted by fast-growing UK startups that need both operational simplicity for early-stage teams and the sophistication required to align with VC expectations.

Key Features

Advanced Cap Table Management

 Capdesk Pro tracks ordinary shares, preference shares, SAFEs, convertible notes, and employee options in one structured system. Every transaction is recorded with an audit trail, reducing errors and simplifying due diligence.

EMI Scheme Management

 UK startups can manage EMI share option grants directly within Capdesk Pro, with structured vesting schedules and compliance checks. This ensures alignment with HMRC requirements and reduces administrative complexity.

Scenario Modelling & Dilution Forecasting

 Founders and finance teams can simulate funding rounds, option pool adjustments, and note conversions. This enables clear visibility on dilution impact before investor negotiations.

Investor & Employee Portal

 Shareholders and employees can securely access their holdings, vesting schedules, and official statements. This centralisation reduces admin work and improves transparency during fundraising.

Reporting & Compliance Tools

 Capdesk Pro provides UK-specific reports suitable for audits, HMRC submissions, and investor review. Finance teams benefit from structured outputs that support governance and tax compliance.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Strong UK EMI compliance	Enterprise pricing for small startups
Investor-ready reporting	Advanced features may require onboarding
Scenario modelling tools	Less global support than enterprise systems
Easy-to-use portal for shareholders	Some integrations limited
Tracks complex preference shares	May be overkill for pre-seed teams

Pricing

Capdesk Pro pricing is generally customised based on:

• Number of shareholders 
• Stage of funding 
• Required compliance and reporting features 

UK companies typically go through a sales process to obtain a quote, reflecting the platform’s enterprise-level flexibility.

Best For Growth-Stage UKStartups Preparing for EMI Compliance and Investor Reporting

Capdesk Pro is best suited for:

• VC-backed UK startups — Managing structured funding rounds 
• Series A and beyond — Tracking preference shares and option pools 
• Finance teams — Preparing investor-ready documentation 
• Startups using EMI schemes — Ensuring HMRC compliance 

For pre-seed startups with only founder shares, Capdesk Pro may provide more functionality than currently required.

How to Use Capdesk Pro Effectively in the UK

• Audit all historic share issuances and ensure correct shareholder records 
• Configure EMI option grants and vesting schedules in compliance with HMRC 
• Model multiple funding scenarios to understand dilution impact 
• Export investor-ready cap table reports ahead of due diligence 
• Maintain an accessible shareholder portal to reduce admin work 

Capdesk Pro vs Alternatives

When comparing Capdesk Pro vs Carta or Eqvista:

• Capdesk Pro provides stronger UK EMI compliance 
• Carta has deeper institutional modelling and global adoption 
• Eqvista offers simpler onboarding and pricing for smaller teams 

For UK startups prioritising structured EMI management and VC readiness, Capdesk Pro is often the most appropriate choice.

Best Alternate Tool

Eqvista – Offers flexible cap table management and transparent pricing, suitable for early-stage UK startups that need straightforward modelling without enterprise complexity.

Our Perspective – Choosing the Right Equity Management Platform for UK Startups

Selecting the right equity management platform is not just about tracking shares—it’s about ensuring compliance, preparing for funding rounds, and managing investor expectations efficiently. For UK startups, tools like Capdesk Pro and Cake Equity offer strong UK-specific EMI scheme support, while platforms such as Carta and Certent provide institutional-grade modelling for complex scenarios. Early-stage founders may benefit from lightweight options like Captable.io or Eqvista, whereas growth-stage or pre-IPO companies require enterprise capabilities.

When evaluating options, consider:

• Stage of your startup — Early-stage vs growth-stage vs pre-IPO 
• Investor expectations — VC-ready documentation and audit trails 
• UK compliance — EMI scheme management and HMRC reporting 
• Future scalability — Ability to handle increasing shareholder numbers and funding rounds 

By aligning platform capabilities with your company’s stage and funding strategy, you ensure smooth equity management, stronger investor confidence, and structured growth.

 FAQs

1. What is a cap table and why is it important for UK startups?
   A cap table is a record of a company’s equity ownership, including shares, options, and convertible instruments. It ensures transparency, supports fundraising, and helps manage investor relations. 
2. How do EMI schemes integrate with equity management platforms?
   Platforms like Capdesk Pro and Cake Equity allow structured EMI option tracking, vesting schedules, and HMRC-compliant reporting. 
3. Can UK startups model dilution before a funding round?
   Yes, most platforms provide scenario modelling tools to simulate equity impact of new funding, option pools, or convertible instruments. 
4. What type of reporting is required for UK investors?
   UK investors often expect cap table summaries, shareholder reports, and investor-ready documents suitable for audits or due diligence. 
5. Are these platforms HMRC-compliant for EMI reporting?
   Platforms such as Capdesk Pro and Cake Equity provide UK-specific features for EMI compliance, though lighter tools may require manual HMRC reporting. 
6. How do preference shares affect cap table calculations?
   Preference shares can include liquidation preferences and participation rights, which are factored into dilution and exit scenario modelling. 
7. Can international employees be included in UK equity management platforms?
   Enterprise platforms like Certent and Carta support global equity plans, while UK-focused tools may require manual adjustments for cross-border employees. 
8. How often should the cap table be updated?
   Ideally, after every funding round, share issuance, or option grant. Regular updates prevent errors and facilitate due diligence. 
9. Do these platforms handle convertible notes or SAFEs?
   Yes. Most platforms allow you to track convertible instruments and model their impact on equity ownership during conversion events. 
10. Which platform is best for pre-seed UK startups?
    Lightweight platforms like Captable.io or Eqvista are suitable due to simplicity and lower pricing, while Capdesk Pro or Carta is more appropriate for VC-backed or growth-stage companies.