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.
What New Fund Managers Should Know About Capital Calls and Distributions
Managing a fund is not just about sourcing deals and driving returns—it also requires a solid grasp of the mechanics behind capital calls and distributions. These two processes are essential to the operational success of any venture capital or private equity fund. For first-time fund managers, understanding how and when to call capital or make distributions can improve transparency, investor trust, and overall fund efficiency.
Founder Agreements: What Every Startup Should Include
When launching a startup, establishing a clear and comprehensive founder agreement is one of the most critical steps. This legal document outlines the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of each founder, ensuring alignment and reducing the risk of future disputes. A well-drafted founder agreement sets the foundation for long-term success.
VC and PE Fund Structures: A Comparative Legal Overview
Venture Capital (VC) and Private Equity (PE) funds are vital engines for innovation and economic growth, but they are structured very differently. For founders, fund managers, and investors alike, understanding these structural distinctions is key to making informed legal and financial decisions. This article breaks down the core legal differences between VC and PE fund structures to provide clarity on how they operate.
LLC vs. C-Corp for Bootstrapped Startups: What’s Best When You’re Not Raising VC
Launching a startup presents numerous strategic decisions, but few are as critical as selecting the right legal structure. For bootstrapped entrepreneurs — those relying on personal savings, revenue, and organic growth rather than venture capital funding — the choice between forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a C-Corporation (C-Corp) can significantly impact both short-term operations and long-term scalability. This article provides a detailed, authoritative comparison to help founders navigate this fundamental decision.
The Importance of Bylaws and Operating Agreements
When launching a startup, founders often focus on product development, fundraising, and market strategy. Yet, two of the most critical internal governance documents are often overlooked: bylaws and operating agreements. These foundational legal instruments define how your company operates, resolves disputes, and makes key decisions. Understanding their purpose and structure is essential for ensuring long-term success and avoiding internal conflict.
Legal Planning for Side Hustles Turning Into Startups
Many successful startups begin as side hustles—weekend projects or freelance gigs that evolve into thriving businesses. As your side hustle gains traction, transitioning into a formal business structure requires strategic legal planning. This article outlines the legal steps startup founders should take when preparing to convert a side hustle into a full-scale business, with a focus on compliance, structure, and long-term viability.
Top 10 Startup Terms Every Founder Should Know (Legally Speaking)
Launching a startup involves more than innovation and market fit; it requires a strong grasp of foundational legal terms that can shape your company's future. Founders who understand key legal concepts are better equipped to protect their interests, avoid common pitfalls, and make informed decisions. This article outlines the top 10 legal terms every startup founder should know to navigate the early stages of building a business.
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