# Advisor shares

Concept · [Fundraising and equity](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/fundraising)

Also called: advisor equity, advisory shares, advisor agreement, advisory board, advisor stock

A small amount of [equity](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/equity) a startup gives an [advisor](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/mentor) in return for ongoing help, usually as [stock options](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/stock-options) that [vest](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/vesting) over the period of the advice.

**For example:** An experienced operator agrees to meet a [founder](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/founder) every month for two years. The company [grants](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/grant) that advisor stock options that [vest](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/vesting) over the two years, under a written advisor agreement.

## Connects to (7)

- [Mentor](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/mentor): An experienced person who gives a founder guidance.
- [Stock options](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/stock-options): The right to buy shares in the company later at a price that is set today.
- [Vesting](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/vesting): Earning your shares bit by bit over time instead of all at once.
- [Option pool](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/option-pool): A block of shares a company sets aside to grant to future employees, advisors and contractors, usually as stock options.
- [Cliff](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/cliff): The first stretch of a vesting schedule, during which nothing vests.
- [Fractional executive](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/fractional-executive): An experienced leader who works for several companies at once, each for part of the week, usually for a monthly fee.
- [Technical advisor](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/technical-advisor): An experienced engineer or technology leader who gives a startup occasional advice on technical choices, such as what to build on and whom…

> This glossary is plain-language orientation, not legal or financial advice. Before you decide on a company structure, a contract, taxes or a fundraising deal, talk with a lawyer or an accountant.

Map view: https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/advisor-shares