Open Cap Table Format

The Open Cap Table Format (OCF (opens in a new tab)) is a JSON-based open-source standard for storing and sharing cap table data. We use OCF to store data off chain. The format is maintained by the Open Cap Table Coalition (opens in a new tab). You'll find the OCF modules in the root folder:

OCF Terminology

The Open Cap Format uses specific terminology:

• Stakeholder: An equity holder on the cap table (shareholder). Can be an individual (person) or institution (company/fund).
• Issuer: The company whose cap table is being tracked.
• Security: A specific equity position (shares, options, warrants, convertibles).
• Transaction: Events that modify the cap table (issuances, transfers, cancellations, etc.).

Note that "stakeholder" in OCF context is more specific than the general business term—it refers only to equity holders, not all parties with interest in the company.

Our Database

Using the OCF, we've created a database (opens in a new tab) schema with a Mongo implementation. This schema is used by the Transfer Agent Protocol to store and share cap table data off chain. Also found in the root folder, our db schema and the server: