Overview
The STAMP (Simple Token Agreement, Market Protected) is an investment contract created by Colosseum that provides a clear path from raising private capital to launching a public token through MetaDAO.Download the STAMP
Get the STAMP document and learn more at Colosseum
Why the STAMP Exists
Traditional crypto fundraising instruments like SAFEs + token warrants create dual equity + token structures that lead to:- Confusion for tokenholders about where value accrues
- Potential extraction by insiders
- Unnecessary costs and complexity
Read the full motivation behind the STAMP in Colosseum’s announcement.
Who Is the STAMP For?
The STAMP is designed for two types of founders:New Startups
Founders with no existing legal entity who want to raise seed capital before their ICO
Existing Cap Tables
Founders with equity structures and existing investors who need to migrate to a token-only model
How the STAMP Works
For New Startups
- Set up entity: Create a Cayman SPC/SP entity through the MetaDAO interface
- Sign STAMP: Investor signs the STAMP and sends funds (typically stablecoins) to your wallet
- Use funds: Funds can only be used for product development and operating expenses
- ICO occurs: Remaining balance transfers to DAO-controlled treasury along with IP
- Token delivery: Investors submit a Delivery Notice to receive their tokens
For Existing Cap Tables
- Create entity: Set up a Cayman SPC/SP entity
- Sign STAMP: Any existing SAFE, note, or convertible is terminated and replaced
- Clean migration: Private investors receive tokens as specified in previous agreements
- Market protection: All tokenholders receive governance protections via MetaDAO
Key Terms
Investor Reserve
Each STAMP investor is allocated a fixed portion of the project’s future token supply:- Must be equal to or below 20% of all project tokens
- Removes ambiguity and eliminates post-hoc renegotiation
- Provides predefined token entitlement that cannot be diluted
Team Allocation
The STAMP specifies milestone-based team allocation:- Minimum: 10% of total token supply
- Maximum: 40% of total token supply
Token Unlock
- Tokens enter a 24-month linear unlock schedule once the Delivery Notice is received
- This aligns long-term incentives between investors and the project
Benefits
For Founders
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Clean structure | Single token-based ownership, no equity complexity |
| Cap table migration | Existing SAFEs/warrants cleanly convert |
| Preserved autonomy | Maintain control while ensuring transparency |
| Cost-effective | Simpler legal structure reduces costs |
For Investors
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Market protection | MetaDAO’s decision markets protect token value |
| Clear entitlement | Fixed token allocation, no ambiguity |
| Onchain governance | Real ownership over treasury and IP |
| Rug protection | ICOs on MetaDAO prevent rugs and allow fair capital return |
Using the STAMP
The STAMP was created by Colosseum but is available for use across the venture ecosystem:1
Download the STAMP
Get the document from colosseum.com/stamp
2
Consult Legal Counsel
Crypto founders and investors should consult with legal counsel in their jurisdictions
3
Customize for Your Startup
Adapt the agreement to your specific situation and investor terms
4
Proceed to MetaDAO ICO
Follow the Getting Listed process to launch your ICO
Resources
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Colosseum STAMP Page | Official STAMP document and FAQ |
| STAMP Announcement | Full background and motivation |
| Getting Listed | Next steps for launching on MetaDAO |
| The ICO | How the MetaDAO ICO works |