# PDF to PDF/A for startups

_Updated July 2026 · Arthize · https://arthize.com/for/startups/pdf-to-pdfa_

Arthize lets startup founders and teams convert a PDF to PDF/A in a private workspace — free, with no watermark. Converting to PDF/A produces an archival-standard PDF with embedded fonts and no external dependencies, so it stays readable for the long term.

## Why startups convert a PDF to PDF/A

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 pdf to pdf/a keeps the work inside your private workspace. Fundraising materials and cap tables are highly confidential; private processing is critical.

## What matters when you convert a PDF to PDF/A

PDF/A embeds all fonts and disallows external dependencies for long-term readability.

Many courts and archives require PDF/A for submitted documents.

Converting to PDF/A is how you future-proof a record.

## How to convert a PDF to PDF/A

1. **Open the convert tool** — Sign in, open Convert and choose PDF/A.
2. **Add your PDF** — Upload the document to archive.
3. **Convert** — Arthize embeds fonts and removes features PDF/A disallows.
4. **Download** — Get a compliant PDF/A file.

## FAQ

### How do startups convert a PDF to PDF/A for free?

Converting to PDF/A produces an archival-standard PDF with embedded fonts and no external dependencies, so it stays readable for the long term. 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 convert a PDF to PDF/A 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 convert a PDF to PDF/A?

Converting to PDF/A produces an archival-standard PDF with embedded fonts and no external dependencies, so it stays readable for the long term. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.

### What is PDF/A and why do I need it?

Converting to PDF/A produces an archival-standard PDF with embedded fonts and no external dependencies, so it stays readable for the long term. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.