An Initial Public Offering (IPO) is the first sale of a company's stock to the public. It's a significant event in a company's life cycle, as it marks the transition from being privately held to becoming a publicly traded entity. When a company decides to go public through an IPO, it offers a portion of its ownership (equity) to investors in the form of shares in exchange for capital.

Here's how the IPO process typically works:

1. Preparation: The company prepares for the IPO by evaluating its financials, business strategy, and market positioning. It often hires investment banks and other financial advisors to assist with the process.
2. Due Diligence: The company goes through a rigorous due diligence process, where its financials, operations, legal matters, and other aspects are thoroughly reviewed to ensure accuracy and transparency.
3. Registration Statement: The company files a registration statement, usually with the securities regulatory authority in the country where it's planning to list its shares. In the United States, this is the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The registration statement includes detailed information about the company, its business, financials, risks, and more.
4. Roadshow: After the registration statement is filed but before the actual IPO, the company's management and underwriters conduct a roadshow. This involves presenting the company's story and investment potential to potential investors, such as institutional investors, mutual funds, and individual investors.
5. Pricing: Based on investor interest and market conditions, the company and its underwriters determine the IPO price per share. This price aims to strike a balance between attracting investors and raising sufficient capital for the company.