Acceleration

A clause that speeds up vesting under certain conditions, typically an acquisition or termination. Single-trigger acceleration vests on one event (like acquisition). Double-trigger requires two events (acquisition plus termination).

Why it matters

Acceleration clauses protect founders and key employees during major company events. Without one, you could lose unvested equity in an acquisition even if you helped build the company. Negotiating the right type of acceleration before it's needed is far easier than trying to get it after a deal is on the table.

How it works

Single-trigger acceleration vests all (or a portion of) your unvested shares when one event happens, like the company being acquired. Double-trigger requires two events, typically an acquisition plus you being terminated or having your role significantly changed within a period afterward. Double-trigger is more common because it keeps employees incentivized to stay through a transition. For example, if you have two years of unvested shares and the company gets acquired, single-trigger would vest everything immediately. Double-trigger would only vest if you were also let go within 12 months of the acquisition.

Learn more

• Vesting Explained

Related terms

• Vesting
• Cliff
• Stock Options
• Term Sheet