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Terms that decide your outcome

Drag-along

A provision forcing minority shareholders to join a sale that has been approved by a defined majority.

Why it matters

It stops a small holder blocking an exit that everyone else wants, which is why acquirers insist on it. It also means you can be compelled into a sale you personally would not choose.

A worked example

If holders of 70% approve an acquisition, the remaining 30% are dragged into the same transaction on identical terms.

What is typical

Universal in venture deals. Negotiate the threshold and which classes must consent, not whether it exists.

Related terms

Tag-along

A provision letting minority shareholders join a sale on the same terms as a selling majority holder.

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Preferred stock

The share class investors buy, carrying rights that common stock does not have.

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Run your raise on this

VCTerminal models these terms on your real cap table, so you can see what a term sheet pays you before you sign it.

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