Accredited investors have access to a wider range of investment opportunities under federal securities laws. While there may be more opportunities available to accredited investors, these opportunities can also carry greater financial and legal risks. The law assumes that accredited investors have enough knowledge to protect themselves from these risks.…
An equal split of shares between founders often seems like the fairest way to split equity in a young business. While this may be the simplest option, it comes with many hidden risks that most entrepreneurs are not aware of until it is too late and the business is in…
A stock option pool has become an increasingly popular tool for startup companies. Entrepreneurs seeking to attract talented employees will often offer incentives that give employees motivation to make the company as profitable as possible, and equity compensation is a very popular option. There are different ways to offer these…
Delaware has long been known as a popular state for incorporation of a new business. Some entrepreneurs think this is solely because of tax benefits, but there are many legal and practical benefits to incorporating a new business in Delaware. Here are some of the most common: Management Friendly The…
New technologies have drastically changed the ways in which new startups raise capital. Securities laws and regulations are adapting to these changes to ensure that investors are still protected under federal securities laws when investing via new technologies. Regulation CF (aka Title III of JOBS Act) is a relatively recent…
Equity compensation is an important tool employers use to attract – and retain – talented employees. Before you begin offering stock options, it is important to consider the amount of stock being issued to employees and how issuing it could affect the value of your business. There are many ways…
Venture capital is a critical source of capital for any new startup. However, venture capital does not need to come with overly draconian conditions. Venture capital may be contingent on the funders receiving Board seats, and funding is typically offered in exchange for equity. But just how much equity should…
Both employees and employers need to understand how stock options work. Employers who issue stock options without understanding them can lose significant value or control of their businesses. Employees who do not understand their stock options could miss out on a significant part of the compensation they are owed for…
The Board of Directors is a critical factor in the success – or failure – of any new startup company. Entrepreneurs must therefore be strategic about if and when they give Board seats to investors. Entrepreneurs must also be cautious of the total number of seats that are given away.…
A private placement memorandum (PPM) is used to offer security in a private company to specific groups of qualified investors. It is used as a marketing tool to provide information and generate interest, but it also serves to meet the requirements of SEC regulations. It is therefore important to be…