Deal Terms
Double Trigger Acceleration
An equity provision that accelerates vesting when two events occur: a change of control (acquisition) AND termination of the employee.
Double trigger acceleration protects employees in acquisition scenarios. Vesting accelerates only if both triggers fire: (1) the company is acquired, AND (2) the employee is terminated or materially demoted within a specified window (usually 12-24 months). Single trigger requires only the acquisition.
In Practice
After the $500M acquisition, the VP of Engineering was let go. Her double trigger provision accelerated 100% of her remaining 18 months of unvested options.
Why It Matters
Double trigger provisions protect employees from being acquired and immediately fired before their equity vests. Acquirers prefer double trigger over single trigger because it helps retain talent.
VC Beast Take
Double trigger is the golden parachute for startup employees. Without it, acquirers can buy the company and fire you before your options vest.
Related Concepts
Further Reading
How Vesting Works at Startups: Cliffs, Schedules, and Acceleration
Your equity doesn't belong to you all at once. Vesting determines when you actually earn your shares — and what happens to them if you leave early, get fired, or the company gets acquired.
What Happens to Your Stock Options If Your Startup Gets Acquired
Acquisitions are where startup equity either pays off or evaporates. Here's how acceleration clauses, liquidation preferences, and deal structure determine whether employees see real money.
Startup Equity Compensation Explained: Stock Options, RSUs, and More
ISOs, NSOs, RSUs, restricted stock — startup equity comes in many flavors. Here's what each type actually means for your compensation, your taxes, and your financial future.
How to Negotiate a Term Sheet as a First-Time Founder
Your first term sheet is exciting and terrifying. Know what's negotiable, what's standard, and the practical tactics for pushing back on liquidation preferences, board seats, and protective provisions.
How to Negotiate Your Term Sheet: A Founder's Playbook
A tactical guide to negotiating your startup term sheet — which terms matter most, where to push back, and how to protect your interests without killing the deal.
How to Read a Term Sheet: A Practical Breakdown
Term sheets aren't designed to be readable. Here's a section-by-section guide to what matters, what's standard, and what should make you walk away.
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