FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about how Pre-IPO Clock works.
Pre-IPO Clock
Your questions, answered
Is Pre-IPO Clock a way to invest in pre-IPO companies?
No. Despite the name, Pre-IPO Clock is not an investment platform and does not offer pre-IPO shares, valuations or returns of any kind. It's an educational site for companies that are preparing to go public, connecting them with experienced IPO advisors — bankers, auditors, securities counsel, governance and investor-relations specialists.
Why does the IPO readiness clock start two years out?
Most companies need roughly 24 months to build audit-ready financials, an independent board, internal controls and the other pieces regulators and underwriters expect — starting late is one of the most common reasons an IPO timeline slips.
What is a PCAOB audit, and why does it matter before an IPO?
A PCAOB audit is an audit performed by a firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, using public-company auditing standards — the SEC requires audited financial statements from a PCAOB-registered firm before a company can go public.
What is an S-1, and when does a company file one?
The S-1 is the registration statement a company files with the SEC to register securities for a public offering; it's typically drafted over several months and can be submitted confidentially for SEC review before it's made public.
Should we consider a direct listing, SPAC or Reg A+ instead of a traditional IPO?
It depends on your company's size, capital needs and timeline — each path has real tradeoffs in cost, control, capital raised and regulatory process, and an IPO advisor can walk through which fits your situation; this site doesn't recommend one path as universally better.
How do we choose the right underwriters or investment bankers?
Companies typically run a selection process — sometimes called a bake-off — comparing research coverage, distribution, sector experience and proposed deal structure across several banks before naming a lead underwriter.
How do IPO advisors receive referrals on this site?
IPO advisors can list for free, or reserve an exclusive territory — a ZIP code, five ZIP codes, a state, or the whole country — so companies in that area who ask for help are connected to them.