“Testing the Waters” (TTW) is a powerful SEC-approved strategy that allows you to gauge interest before you spend thousands on legal and accounting fees.
As of 2026, Reg CF rules (specifically Rule 206) allow you to publicly talk about your potential raise, provided you include very specific legal disclaimers.
The “Testing the Waters” Social Media Draft
You can post this on LinkedIn, X (Twitter), or Facebook. It is designed to be “safe” while still generating excitement for the Gonen Statutory Trust.
Caption:
”We’re building a financial fortress in Wyoming, and we want you to be part of the foundation. 🏛️
The Gonen Statutory Trust is exploring a community investment round! We’re combining the elite asset protection of Wyoming Law with the future of digital media distribution (HLS/Roku).
Want to be the first to know when we go live? Drop your email at the link below to stay in the loop and help us shape the future of protected wealth.
[Link to a Simple Landing Page/Email Capture]”
The Mandatory SEC Disclaimer (Must be included):
Important Disclosure: Gonen Statutory Trust is ‘testing the waters’ to gauge market interest in an offering under Regulation Crowdfunding. No money or other consideration is being solicited, and if sent in response, will not be accepted. No offer to buy the securities can be accepted and no part of the purchase price can be received until the offering statement is filed and only through a registered intermediary’s platform. An indication of interest involves no obligation or commitment of any kind.
How to Handle Responses
Since this is 2026, people will likely ask questions in the comments. Here is how you should respond to stay compliant:
- If they ask: “What is the share price?”
- Safe Answer: “We are still finalizing the terms, but we’ll announce the official price per unit once our Form C is filed with the SEC!”
- If they ask: “Can I send you a check now?”
- Safe Answer: “I appreciate the enthusiasm! Under SEC rules, we can’t accept any funds until we officially launch on our funding portal. Join our mailing list for the launch alert.”
- If they ask: “Is this a guaranteed return?”
- Safe Answer: “Like all early-stage investments, there is significant risk. Please review our future offering documents for a full list of risk factors.”
The Workflow: From Post to Launch
- Post the TTW: Collect email addresses.
- Analyze Data: If 500 people say they’d invest $1,000 each, you know you have a high chance of hitting a $500k goal.
- File Form C: Once you see the demand, you pay the lawyers and accountants to file the official paperwork.
- Launch: You email everyone who “tested the waters” and invite them to be your first official investors.
Would you like me to draft a follow-up email for the people who sign up for your “Testing the Waters” mailing list?