[eskil]

One suggestion you can make to the founders is early exercise. Some companies offer this. That at least gives the employer the benefit that people put money on the table and "invest" in the company by buying their options before they vest. It shows some belief and financial commitment.

Of course, in a very early startup, that investment might be so small they won't care, and there's a tax implication for the employee you'll want to be aware of.