It’s important for every business to attract good talent, but it’s especially vital for startups. The people they hire initially will help to shape the direction, foundation, and culture of the entire company. In order to attract and retain top talent, you’ll need to provide the right incentive. You can use these sample benefits packages for startups to guide how you want to structure your team’s benefits.

The basics

  • A living wage, if you cannot afford a high salary
  • HR staff to handle their benefits and ensure timely delivery of pay
  • Medical insurance with vision and dental
  • Paid time off (more on this later)

Something extra

  • Healthy snacks and food
  • A savings plan
  • Home set-up (laptops, Internet connection, ergonomic hardware)
  • Gym membership
  • Company outings or trips
  • Transportation benefits (parking space, public transportation pass)
  • On-site daycare for pets and children
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Discounts with local businesses

There are many company benefits you can offer your startup employees that don’t include a raise in salary. According to a thread in Quora, startups are getting creative with mixing and matching their benefits.

Sample 1 – Wishpond

  • Free food
  • Panda onesies
  • $1000 annual learning budget
  • Monthly group activities
  • Stock options
  • Beer Fridays
  • Games

Sample 2 – The Content Factory (remote)

  • Work from home
  • Internet
  • Cable
  • Cell phones
  • Company trips

Sample 3 – Ribbon

  • Flexible hours
  • Equity + competitive salary
  • Ping pong and foosball
  • Health, dental, and vision
  • Gym membership

Sample 4 – 72, Leocraft

  • Open vacation policy
  • Learning and growth support
  • Flexible hours
  • Breakfast
  • Insurance
  • Pet-friendly workspace
  • Onsite massages
  • Recreational facitlities

Do any of these benefits match what your startup can offer? Let us know in the comments below!

About the Author: Jocelyn Pick