Honest Comparison
Paying for Development vs Trading Equity
Equity seems free now. But what does it really cost you?
8
Webscension Wins
1
Equity-for-Development Wins
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
Feature
Webscension
Equity-for-Development
Upfront Cost
$2,997
$0 (equity only)
Equity Given
0%
5-25% typical
Cost at $1M Valuation
$2,997
$50,000-250,000
Cost at $10M Valuation
$2,997
$500,000-2,500,000
Cap Table Impact
Clean
Complicated early
Future Fundraising
No complications
Investors ask questions
Developer Commitment
Contractual delivery
Variable motivation
Timeline Guarantee
2 weeks guaranteed
Often delayed (no payment pressure)
Exit Flexibility
Full control
Developer has vote
Why Choose Webscension
- Equity is your most valuable asset—keep it
- Clean cap table for future investors
- Guaranteed timeline and delivery
- Full control over your company
- Simple, predictable cost
- Developer has no ongoing claim
Why Choose Equity-for-Development
- No upfront cash needed
- Developer has skin in the game
- Potential long-term partner
- Preserves cash runway
- Works when completely bootstrapped
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose Webscension if:
Any founder with $3,000 to invest who wants to keep their equity for things that matter.
Choose Equity-for-Development if:
Founders with truly zero cash and a developer they trust who wants to become a co-founder.
Our Verdict
Giving away equity for development is almost always a bad trade. 10% equity for $3,000 of work means you're valuing your company at $30,000—and if you succeed, that equity is worth vastly more. Pay for development, keep your equity for employees and investors who add ongoing value.
Ready to Build Your MVP?
Get your MVP built in 2 weeks for $2,997. First paying customer within 90 days, or full refund.