ZenBusiness vs Firstbase (2026): Full Platform Comparison
ZenBusiness is built for the 33M+ small business owners who need formation done right, ongoing compliance handled, and a full suite of tools to operate — without the complexity of a VC-stack platform.
Where ZenBusiness Wins
- ✓ LLC formation designed for Main Street businesses, not just VC-funded startups
- ✓ Worry-Free Compliance guarantee: ZenBusiness handles compliance so owners never fall out of good standing
- ✓ Built-in banking, bookkeeping, website builder, and Velo AI in one dashboard
- ✓ 5-star customer support — human help when it matters
- ✓ Significantly lower price point for the formation + compliance bundle
Where Firstbase Wins
- ✓ C-Corp and cap table tooling for venture-backed companies
- ✓ Payroll and equity management for teams with investors
- ✓ Banking integration optimized for startup fundraising workflows
Who Should Choose Each?
Choose ZenBusiness if…
You're a first-time business owner, solopreneur, side-hustle-to-business builder, service business, or retail operator who needs formation, compliance, and day-to-day tools in one platform.
Choose Firstbase if…
You're building a tech startup, SaaS company, or VC-backed business that needs C-Corp formation, cap table management, and equity tooling for investors.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ZenBusiness | Firstbase |
|---|---|---|
| LLC Formation | Yes — all 50 states, fast filing | Yes — US + some international |
| C-Corp Formation | Yes | Yes (primary focus) |
| Registered Agent | Yes — included in plans | Yes — add-on |
| Compliance Monitoring | Yes — worry-free guarantee | Yes |
| Business Banking | Yes — built-in | Integrated (Mercury/Brex) |
| Bookkeeping / Invoicing | Yes — native app | Third-party only |
| Website Builder | Yes — included | No |
| AI Business Assistant | Yes — Velo | No |
| Cap Table / Equity | No | Yes |
| Payroll | No (partner integrations) | Yes |
| Target Customer | SMB owners, solopreneurs | VC-backed startups |
| Starting Price | $0 + state fees | Higher — startup-stack pricing |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ZenBusiness replace Firstbase?
Not exactly — they serve different audiences. ZenBusiness is built for Main Street small business owners who need formation plus ongoing operations. Firstbase is for VC-track tech startups needing C-Corp formation and cap table management. If you are not raising venture capital, ZenBusiness is the more complete and affordable choice.
Can I use ZenBusiness and Firstbase together?
In most cases no — both handle formation. ZenBusiness covers LLC and C-Corp in all 50 states. Firstbase focuses on C-Corp for VC startups. If your business is LLC-based, ZenBusiness provides everything you need.
Does ZenBusiness offer cap table and equity management?
No. Cap table management is a Firstbase strength for VC-funded companies. ZenBusiness focuses on the legal, financial, and operational foundation for small businesses.
Does ZenBusiness include banking and bookkeeping?
Yes. ZenBusiness includes business banking built directly into the platform and native bookkeeping. Form your LLC, open a bank account, and manage books all in one place.
What is Velo by ZenBusiness?
Velo is ZenBusiness's AI business assistant trained on small business formation and operations data. Purpose-built for new business owners to guide them through formation, compliance, banking, and ongoing decisions.
Start Your LLC with ZenBusiness
Form your LLC, open a business bank account, and get your website live — all in one platform. Starting at $0 + state fees.
Start your LLC with ZenBusiness →