Resource Center

Stay in the know with the latest news and expert insights from StartSmart Counsel. Our dedicated team of advisors regularly shares valuable updates, industry trends, and business wisdom to help you navigate the entrepreneurial journey. Explore our curated collection of news articles and blog posts to gain valuable insights and stay ahead in your startup endeavors.

How to Use Board Consent Resolutions When Raising Capital
Liz Komatsu Liz Komatsu

How to Use Board Consent Resolutions When Raising Capital

Board consent resolutions are critical legal instruments in the fundraising process for startups and investment funds. These resolutions authorize corporate actions without convening a formal board meeting, making them efficient tools for approving key decisions—especially when timing is essential. Whether issuing new equity, amending a certificate of incorporation, or entering into financing agreements, board consent resolutions are often required to validate the company’s authority to proceed.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of how and when to use board consent resolutions during a capital raise, and the legal elements founders and general partners must understand to remain compliant.

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Essential Legal Policies for Remote Teams
Liz Komatsu Liz Komatsu

Essential Legal Policies for Remote Teams

The shift to remote work has transformed how startups and growing businesses operate. While remote teams offer flexibility, scalability, and access to global talent, they also raise significant legal and compliance challenges. To ensure operational continuity and legal protection, companies must implement formal policies that address the unique risks associated with remote work. This article outlines the essential legal policies every business should establish when managing a distributed workforce.

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What Is a Data Room? Legal Preparation for Fundraising
Liz Komatsu Liz Komatsu

What Is a Data Room? Legal Preparation for Fundraising

A data room is an essential tool for startups and investment funds preparing for a fundraising round. Whether digital or physical, a data room is a secure repository where founders, fund managers, and legal counsel organize and share critical documents with prospective investors during due diligence. Properly structuring a data room is not only a logistical necessity but also a strategic legal safeguard that can accelerate funding, build investor trust, and reduce liability.

This article explores the function of a data room, outlines its key components, and provides legal best practices for preparing one in the context of fundraising.

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Avoiding Conflicts of Interest in Fund Management
Liz Komatsu Liz Komatsu

Avoiding Conflicts of Interest in Fund Management

Conflicts of interest are among the most critical legal and ethical challenges facing fund managers. Whether managing a venture capital fund, private equity vehicle, or hedge fund, fiduciary obligations demand that managers prioritize the interests of investors above personal or affiliated interests. Failing to manage conflicts effectively can result in regulatory enforcement, litigation, reputational harm, and investor distrust. This article provides an in-depth overview of how fund managers can identify, mitigate, and disclose conflicts of interest in compliance with applicable laws and industry standards.

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Outsourcing Compliance: Pros, Cons & Legal Obligations
Liz Komatsu Liz Komatsu

Outsourcing Compliance: Pros, Cons & Legal Obligations

As regulatory requirements continue to expand in complexity and scope, many startups and investment firms are turning to outsourced compliance services as a cost-effective solution. While outsourcing can provide significant operational efficiencies and access to specialized expertise, it does not absolve an organization of its ultimate legal responsibilities. This article explores the advantages, risks, and legal obligations associated with outsourcing compliance functions.

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Understanding Fund Audits and Compliance Obligations
Liz Komatsu Liz Komatsu

Understanding Fund Audits and Compliance Obligations

Fund audits and regulatory compliance are essential pillars of responsible fund management. For fund managers, limited partners, and compliance officers, understanding audit procedures and legal obligations is critical for maintaining transparency, investor trust, and adherence to governing regulations. This article outlines the key legal and procedural requirements surrounding fund audits and compliance obligations.

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Protecting Fund IP : Logos, Decks, and Branding
Liz Komatsu Liz Komatsu

Protecting Fund IP : Logos, Decks, and Branding

For investment firms and fund managers, intellectual property (IP) plays a crucial role in building market presence, investor confidence, and long-term brand equity. Elements such as logos, pitch decks, websites, and fund names are more than marketing tools—they are strategic assets that require legal protection. In a competitive and highly scrutinized industry, safeguarding IP is essential to preserving reputation and preventing unauthorized use. This article outlines the legal considerations and best practices for protecting a fund’s intellectual property.

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