# Flatten PDF for startups

_Updated July 2026 · Arthize · https://arthize.com/for/startups/flatten-pdf_

Arthize lets startup founders and teams flatten a PDF in a private workspace — free, with no watermark. Flattening a PDF merges form fields, annotations and layers into the page, so nobody can change filled-in values and the file renders everywhere.

## Why startups flatten a PDF

A founder exports the pitch deck to PDF, merges it with financials into a data-room file, and sends a SAFE for e-signature — without paying for enterprise document software.

**Built for pitch decks.** Whether it's pitch decks, cap tables, contracts, Arthize's flatten pdf keeps the work inside your private workspace. Fundraising materials and cap tables are highly confidential; private processing is critical.

## What matters when you flatten a PDF

Flattening bakes form fields and annotations into the page so they can't be changed.

It fixes forms that display differently in different viewers.

A flattened PDF is the safe way to share a completed form.

## How to flatten a PDF

1. **Open the flatten tool** — Sign in and open the Flatten tool.
2. **Add your PDF** — Upload a form or annotated document.
3. **Flatten** — Arthize bakes fields and annotations into the page content.
4. **Download** — Get a flattened, tamper-resistant PDF.

## FAQ

### How do startups flatten a PDF for free?

Flattening a PDF merges form fields, annotations and layers into the page, so nobody can change filled-in values and the file renders everywhere. On Arthize it's free with no watermark, and the file is deleted after the job — which is why startup founders and teams can use it for pitch decks without a confidentiality risk.

### Is it private to flatten a PDF sensitive pitch decks?

Yes. Fundraising materials and cap tables are highly confidential; private processing is critical. Files are processed inside your private Arthize workspace and deleted after the job.

### How do I flatten a PDF form?

Flattening a PDF merges form fields, annotations and layers into the page, so nobody can change filled-in values and the file renders everywhere. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.

### Why do my filled form fields disappear in some viewers?

Flattening a PDF merges form fields, annotations and layers into the page, so nobody can change filled-in values and the file renders everywhere. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.