Pro Rata Investment Calculator

Estimate how much you need to invest in a new round to maintain your ownership percentage (simplified).

Pro rata rights let an existing investor participate in a new round to maintain ownership (subject to terms and allocation).

A simple model can estimate ownership dilution if you do not invest and the investment needed to keep ownership constant.

Prefer an explanation- Read the guide.
 
%
 
$
 
$
Tip: you can type commas (e.g., 10,000).

Example

Using the default inputs, the result is:
$250,000.00
Current ownership
5%
Pre-money valuation
$20,000,000
New investment (round size)
$5,000,000

How to calculate

  1. Enter your current ownership (before the new round).
  2. Enter pre-money valuation and new investment amount.
  3. Review your ownership if you do not participate and your estimated pro rata check size.

Formula

Pro rata check = current ownership % x round size; ownership (no participate) = current % x (pre-money / post-money)
  • Simplified model; ignores option pool changes, SAFEs/notes, and share-class terms.
  • Assumes ownership is measured on a consistent fully diluted basis before and after the round.

FAQ

Why is pro rata investment current % x round size-
If you own X% and want to keep X% after new shares are issued, you typically need to buy X% of the new issuance, which corresponds to about X% of the round size in a priced round.
Why does ownership drop if I do not participate-
New shares are issued to new investors (and sometimes the option pool), so existing shareholders are diluted unless they buy some of the new shares.

Common mistakes

  • Ignoring option pool increases and other dilutive instruments (SAFE/notes).
  • Assuming you can always take full pro rata (allocation may be limited).
  • Using inconsistent ownership basis (fully diluted vs issued shares).

Quick checks

  • Use consistent time units (monthly vs annual) when entering rates and cash flows.
  • Run a sensitivity check on the input that drives the result most (often discount rate or growth).
  • Treat the output as a decision aid, not a prediction; validate assumptions with reality.