Open marketplace

EquityZen

One of the more accessible entry points, with lower minimums and many pre-cleared listings.

Typical minimum

Often starting around $10K

Best for

Individual investors new to pre-IPO secondaries who want a lower minimum check.

About EquityZen

EquityZen built its reputation on making pre-IPO investing accessible to individual accredited investors at check sizes well below what institutional-focused platforms typically require. It was acquired by Morgan Stanley in 2025, bringing it under a major financial institution's umbrella.

Many of its listings come from employees and early investors at well-known private companies who've already cleared right-of-first-refusal issues with the company, which can mean a smoother path from commitment to closing than a fully bespoke direct deal.

How it works

Investors browse available listings by company, commit capital toward a specific listing, and typically gain economic exposure through a special-purpose vehicle (SPV) that holds the underlying shares — the standard structure for marketplace secondaries at this check size.

Because listings depend on which employees or early investors are currently looking to sell, available companies and pricing change over time; there's no guarantee any specific company you want exposure to is listed when you check.

Visit EquityZen ↗

Every platform in this directory requires accredited investor status, and every listing carries the same underlying risks: limited information rights, no board access, and illiquidity that can last years. None of this is investment advice — verify current fees, minimums, and available listings directly on the platform, and treat any specific opportunity with the same diligence you'd apply to a primary investment.

Frequently asked questions

What changed after the Morgan Stanley acquisition?
EquityZen continues to operate its marketplace; Morgan Stanley's acquisition (completed 2025) brought additional institutional backing and distribution, though the core product — pre-cleared secondary listings for individual investors — has stayed the same.
Do I get direct shares or a fund interest?
Most EquityZen transactions structure your exposure through an SPV, not direct share ownership — confirm the specific structure for any listing before committing.
Is this an endorsement of EquityZen?
No. This is independent, informational coverage — not sponsored, not affiliated, and not investment advice. Verify current fees, minimums, and available listings directly on EquityZen's own site before committing any capital.