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.

Are You the Drama? Probably.
Jennifer Newton Jennifer Newton

Are You the Drama? Probably.

The startup ecosystem thrives on bold ideas, shared vision, and agile execution. But beneath the surface of many promising ventures lies a less discussed risk: internal founder conflict. In fact, a significant number of startups fail not due to market conditions or capital constraints—but because co-founders fall out.

Whether it's over equity, decision-making, or direction, founder disputes can dismantle a company faster than any competitor. If you're asking, “Am I the drama?”, the answer might be “yes” and the legal consequences could be substantial.

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The Section 83(b) Election: Why It Matters for Founders’ Equity
Liz Komatsu Liz Komatsu

The Section 83(b) Election: Why It Matters for Founders’ Equity

Equity compensation is a powerful tool to attract and retain founding team members—but it comes with tax nuances that can have a major impact on your upside. The Section 83(b) election is one of the most important elections a founder can make, and yet it’s frequently misunderstood or even overlooked.

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Chargebacks and Refunds: Handling Disputes with Clear Terms
Liz Komatsu Liz Komatsu

Chargebacks and Refunds: Handling Disputes with Clear Terms

Chargebacks and refunds are an inevitable part of running any business that accepts payments. While you can’t eliminate disputes entirely, you can greatly reduce friction—and protect your margins—by embedding clear, comprehensive terms into your policies and contracts. Here’s how to design chargeback and refund provisions that set expectations, streamline processes, and minimize revenue loss.

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How Founders Are Using Blockchain for Payments, Identity & More
Liz Komatsu Liz Komatsu

How Founders Are Using Blockchain for Payments, Identity & More

In the rapidly evolving world of Web3, founders are pioneering innovative applications of blockchain technology far beyond its cryptocurrency origins. From streamlining cross‑border payments to bolstering digital identity, today’s startups are building the infrastructure for a more secure, transparent, and inclusive internet. This blog explores three core pillars—payments, identity, and “everything else”—and offers practical insights for founders looking to leverage blockchain in their ventures.

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StartSmart Counsel in the News : Compliance Week
Jennifer Newton Jennifer Newton

StartSmart Counsel in the News : Compliance Week

In this feature, Jennifer discusses why integrity and ethical leadership are foundational to long-term success — especially for startups and businesses navigating today’s complex regulatory landscape.

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Revenue and Resilience: How Startups Can Thrive When Grants and Capital Stall
Jennifer Newton Jennifer Newton

Revenue and Resilience: How Startups Can Thrive When Grants and Capital Stall

Startups often depend on external funding to maintain operations and pursue growth. Yet, during a government shutdown, critical programs such as Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants, federal contracts, and other non-dilutive funding opportunities may be suspended or delayed. At the same time, during economic downturns, venture capital investment in startups slows significantly.

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