Hybrid Equity Model

 

Goal – Raise $900,000 from a group of mission-aligned investors who want to support nature-based retreats, regenerative land stewardship, and meaningful experiences.


Nelson’s Contribution (Founders & Stewards)

  • Secured $400K in instant equity by purchasing a $1.2M property (Lincoln county land is going for 20k/acre and that evaluation doesn’t include the buildings) for $800K.
  • Nelson’s brings 20+ years of experience in storytelling, biology, education, and filmmaking to help market, sell and fill the farm stays.

  • Brings operational oversight, vision, content creation

  • Will contribute sweat equity, ongoing media content, and day-to-day operational oversight.

  • Retains 33% equity in the retreat business.

  • Retains exclusive rights to a 15-acre parcel at the south end of the land for personal homesteading so as to maintain the land.


Investor Offering

Raise $900K across 10 investors (or fewer, depending on appetite).

Each $90K investor receives:

  • 6.25% equity in Indian Creek Retreat, totaling 62.5% of the business across 10 investors

  • Profit sharing based on net Airbnb and treehouse income

  • 1 week per year stay at any retreat property (treehouse, farmhouse, cabin, etc.)

  • Early access to booking and events

  • Invitation to annual investor retreat / seasonal farm event

  • Optional resale of their stake back to the business or new investors after 7-9 years, at a 1.5x return goal if the business performs


Estimated Returns

If Indian Creek nets $100K in Year 3:

  • Each 7.44% stake receives $5,580/yr

  • Plus ~$2,500 in stay perks

  • That’s ~8.08% ROI in year three plus lifestyle value

By Year 5, as new treehouses come online and brand momentum grows, profits could increase significantly.


Ideal Investor

  • Nature lover

  • Believes in regenerative land use

  • Wants a peaceful getaway every year to stay with family

  • Cares more about finding meaning than pure profit (although we’ll have profits to share)

  • Ideally friends, family or supportive followers

Estimated Returns

Assumptions:

  • 50% average occupancy across 3 units

  • Yearly growth of ~25%

  • Efficient management and minimal debt

Estimated Return Breakdown

Equity Available to Investors: 67%
Capital Raised: $900,000
Investment Per Partner (example):

  • 6 investors: $150K each → ~11.17% equity each

  • 9 investors: $100K each → ~7.44% equity each

Projected Net Profits 

YearNet ProfitInvestor Share (67%)Return Per $100K Investment (7.44% Equity)
1$30,000$20,100~$2,238
2$50,000$33,500~$3,730
3$75,000$50,250~$5,595
4$100,000$67,000~$7,430
5$125,000$83,750~$9,290

🌲 These returns are in cash flow only and don’t include:

  • Free annual retreat stays (~$2,500 value per investor)

  • Equity appreciation if the business is sold or refinanced

  • Optional buyback or sale to another investor at 1.5x in 8-9 years.

 

TOTAL RETURN SUMMARY (Over 9 Years per 100K invested)

ComponentValue
Cash Returns$65,472
Stays Value$22,500
Final Buyout$150,000
Total Return$237,972