Pricing comparison methodology

Scenario assumptions

All comparisons use the same baseline scenario to ensure apples-to-apples evaluation:

What's included in the cost

The 5-year cost figure includes all platform-side economics: setup fees, annual/recurring fees, and carry extraction (where applicable). These are the costs that vary between platforms and represent the GP's decision variable.

What's excluded

Passthrough operating expenses are excluded because every platform charges them at approximately equal cost. These include:

• Tax preparation (~$1,500–$2,500/year)
• K-1 generation and distribution
• Annual state filings and registered agent fees
• Independent audit (if required by operating agreement)
• Legal fees for amendments or special situations

Excluding passthroughs isolates the platform decision: which platform gives you the best economics for the same underlying administrative work?

Source data

Competitor pricing is sourced from each platform's publicly available pricing page. Where pricing is not publicly listed (e.g., Carta), we use the most recent publicly reported figures and note the opacity.

Ignite cost calculations

Platform Fee Tier (SPV 1)

$5,000 paid once at First Close. Covers years 1–5 of platform operations. Volume discounts apply from SPV 2 onward: $4,000 (SPVs 2–4), $3,000 (SPVs 5–9), $2,500 (SPV 10+). If the SPV runs beyond year 5, a renewal at 60% of the prior fee accrues every 5 years and is paid from distribution proceeds. Lifetime cap: 200% of First-Close fee. Waived at dissolution if proceeds are insufficient.

Platform Fee Tier (SPV 10+)

$2,500 paid once at First Close. Represents the 50% volume discount for the 10th SPV onward. Same renewal mechanics apply.

Carry Tier (no appreciation)

2.5% of LP profits above capital. If the deal generates no appreciation, LP profits = $0, so platform carry = $0. No First-Close fee. No renewals. This is the worst-case scenario for the GP on Carry Tier — and the cost is zero.

Update cadence

Competitor pricing is verified quarterly. When a pricing change is observed, we update the comparison tables within 5 business days and note the change date in this methodology page. If you notice an error or outdated figure, contact us at laureate.fund/contact.