Launching your AI startup in 2025? Delaware gives you a clear, fast path from incorporation to raising capital. Whether you’re solo or have a founding team, here’s a timeline to go from idea to investor-ready in 60 days or less.
Tax Code and Legal Reference
- IRC §351 – Tax-free asset transfers for stock
- IRC §11 – C-Corp federal tax rate
- IRC §1202 – QSBS exclusion
- IRS Notice 2005-45 – Guidelines on founder equity
- Delaware General Corporation Law (DGCL) – For stock issuance, board formation, and investor rights
Key Forms and Filings
- Delaware Certificate of Incorporation
- Form SS-4 – EIN application
- Form 83(b) – For early stock elections
- Form 1120 – Federal tax return for C-Corps
- Delaware Annual Report & Franchise Tax
Example: 60-Day Launch Timeline
Example: NeuralForge AI
- Day 1-3: Incorporated in Delaware
- Day 5: EIN obtained, bank account opened
- Day 7-10: Founder stock issued, Form 83(b) filed
- Day 15: Cap table set, SAFE draft prepared
- Day 30: First employee onboarded via Rippling
- Day 45-60: Pitched to seed investors and secured $500K
Step-by-Step: From Filing to Funding
- Incorporate in Delaware (Day 1-3)
Use standard charter with preferred stock if planning to raise. - Apply for EIN (Day 2-5)
File Form SS-4 online to get your tax ID. - Open U.S. Bank Account (Day 5-7)
Online banks like Mercury or Relay work well. - Issue Founder Stock (Day 5-10)
File Form 83(b) within 30 days to lock in early tax value. - Set Up Cap Table (Day 7-14)
Use Carta or Pulley to manage equity. - Build a Pitch Deck (Day 14-30)
Include traction, team, model, and Delaware legal status. - Start Investor Meetings (Day 30-60)
Have SAFE templates ready and Delaware docs on hand.
Conclusion
The first 60 days are critical. Delaware lets you move fast-form your company, issue shares, open accounts, and start pitching-all with investor-ready credibility. Set the foundation now to scale later.
Call to Action
Want a smooth, IRS-compliant startup launch?
Book a call with Anshul Goyal, CPA, EA, FCA to go from filing to funding with zero compliance gaps.
Schedule your call now
Disclaimer
This blog is for educational use only. For tailored tax or legal advice, consult with a licensed professional.
Anshul Goyal is a CPA licensed in the U.S., IRS Enrolled Agent, and Chartered Accountant (India), helping founders set up legally and scale globally.
FAQs – Launch Timeline
1. How fast can I incorporate in Delaware?
Same-day service available; most founders finish in 2-3 business days.
2. When should I file Form 83(b)?
Within 30 days of stock grant-earlier is better.
3. Can I raise money before I file taxes?
Yes, but you must stay compliant from day one with IRS and Delaware.
4. Do I need U.S. residency to open a bank account?
No, many fintech banks accept international founders.
5. Can I launch remotely?
Yes. Delaware filings, EIN, and banking can all be done online.
About Our CPA
Anshul Goyal, CPA, EA, FCA helps global AI founders incorporate, stay tax-compliant, and raise capital from U.S. investors. He’s licensed in the U.S. and India and represents clients before the IRS.