THE ACCELERATOR TAX NO ONE TALKS ABOUT

“The Accelerator Illusion: Why 20% Costs More Than You Think”

The Hidden Tax on Founder Dreams

Picture this: You've just been accepted into a prestigious accelerator program. The terms? Just 20% of your company. "It's standard," they say. "It's how the game is played."

But what if the game is rigged?

At StartupStage, we're challenging the acceleration model that's become gospel in startup circles. Because that 20% isn't just a number—it's your future.

The Math Nobody Shows You

When accelerators take 20% of your equity, they're not taking 20% of your company today. They're taking 20% of:

• Your exit value in 5-7 years

• Every dollar of future investment you raise

• The legacy you're building for yourself and your family

Let's put this in perspective: At a modest $10M exit, that 20% equals $2,000,000. For three months of "programming" and a network you could build yourself.

That's roughly a $667,000 monthly fee!

Is any advice worth that much?

The Founder Rebellion Has Begun

The smartest founders we work with have done the math. They've realized that equity is their most precious asset—one that compounds in value as they grow.

They're asking tough questions:

• "Why should I give away part of my company forever for temporary support?"

• "If their advice is so valuable, why won't they let me pay cash for it?"

• "What happens when their interests and my interests diverge?"

These founders are part of a growing movement rejecting the conventional wisdom that says success requires massive equity dilution.

What Elite Founders Know That Others Don't

Here's what the top 5% of founders understand: The best investments in your company's growth shouldn't require giving away your company.

Elite founders are turning to fractional expertise—seasoned executives who provide specialized knowledge exactly when needed, without the permanent overhead or equity demands.

They're building custom advisory networks aligned with their specific challenges, not generic programs designed for the masses.

They're keeping their cap tables clean, maintaining decision-making control, and maximizing their upside.

The Anti-Accelerator Alternative

At StartupStage, we've built what we call the "Anti-Accelerator"—a model that delivers executive-level expertise without the equity dilution.

• Instead of 20% equity: A transparent monthly fee of $2,600

• Instead of generic playbooks: Tailored strategies for your specific challenges

• Instead of temporary support: Ongoing access to fractional executives

• Instead of accelerator interests: 100% alignment with your goals

Our founders keep full ownership of their companies while accessing the expertise they need to scale effectively.

The Choice Is Yours

Today's founders have a clear choice:

Follow the well-worn path to accelerators, incubators, and early equity dilution...

Or join the founder rebellion, maintain your ownership, and scale on your terms.

As one founder recently told us: "The $31,200 I paid StartupStage over 12 months saved me from giving away equity that would have been worth $3.5 million at exit. Best investment I ever made."

Take Action Now

If you're ready to own your growth and keep your equity, here's how to start:

1. Calculate what 20% really costs you. Use our Equity Calculator to see the true price of acceleration.

2. Book a strategy call. Let's discuss your specific challenges and how our fractional executives can help without taking your equity.

3. Join our Founders' Circle. Connect with other founders who are scaling without excessive dilution.

The startup world doesn't need more founders giving away their companies. It needs more founders building on their own terms.

Own your growth. Keep your equity.

StartupStage is the premier platform helping founders scale from $5K to $5M+ without unnecessary equity dilution. Our fractional executive model provides the expertise you need at a fraction of the cost—with zero equity required.

Get Started Today →

Don't let generic advice hold you back. Let's work together to build a strong foundation for your success, ensuring every step you take is aligned with your goals.

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Want to be a Founding Member of StartupStage?

Exciting news! We're now open for applications to join the brand new Founders’ Circle as a Founding Member. We're on the hunt for 20 outstanding founders to be part of this exclusive program. As we kick off StartupStage, we're eager to collaborate with seasoned founders who can help shape our community and, in return, enjoy some amazing perks.

Here's what you get as a Founding Member:

1. - Enjoy a free 1-year membership to StartupStage’s Private Founders’ Circle, perfect for founders who are building, launching, and growing their businesses and brands. (valued at $2,400)

2. - Get early access to over 490 verified tool discounts, with the potential to save you over $1M

3. - Connect directly with our network of seasoned founders and investors

4. - Receive a special Founding Member badge and recognition on our platform - Gain priority access to all new features and resources every month

5. - This is your chance to help shape the future of the Founders’ Circle Community! Your insights and feedback are crucial in tailoring it to fit the needs of founders like you!

Who we're looking for:

• - Entrepreneurs who have launched several businesses or have successfully sold a company

• Startups currently generating at least $1M in annual recurring revenue

• An eagerness to participate and connect with the community

• A readiness to share growth strategies and insights that aren't confidential

• Skills and knowledge that can help other founders succeed

Why you should apply now:

Hey there! Just a quick heads-up: there's a special chance available right now, but it's only for a short time. You have 7 days to apply, and we're welcoming just 20 founders into this unique group. Once these spots are taken, the only way to join will be through our regular paid membership. Don't miss out!

How to apply:

It's super simple and fast! You can finish the application in under 5 minutes. We're checking them out as they arrive, so getting yours in early gives you a little advantage. We're really excited about the chance to welcome you as a Founding Member! Cheers, Jeremy Holland Founder | CEO, StartupStage

P.S. Go ahead and pass this along to any superstar founders you know who might fit the bill, but keep in mind—there are only 20 golden tickets up for grabs! So, no pressure, but choose wisely, like you're picking a dessert at an all-you-can-eat buffet.

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