The Hidden Cost Of Accelerators
This blog was originally published in December of 2018 but was revised in May of 2025 and is still accurate. Accelerators are everywhere these days and can be a springboard for your startup. But they may not be right for […]
Beware Of Your First Investor
This blog was originally published in November of 2018 but was revised in March of 2025 and is still accurate. We’re well aware of how critical it is for a startup to raise capital. I’ve yet to see a startup […]
Restricted Equity v. Options & 83(b) Elections
Recently formed companies often issue restricted equity to stakeholders, but once the companies close a funding round or achieve significant revenue, restricted equity is inappropriate. Instead, the company needs an option plan and to issue options. This blog will answer, […]
Incentive Stock Options v. Non-Qualified Stock Options
For cash-starved startups, compensating employees with options can be a great way for founders to motivate the employees to increase the company’s worth, and to remain with the company. However, the differing vehicles to issue options can be confusing. Often, […]
Bringing Startup Culture To Law In Brazil
A Q&A with our 2018 YLAI Fellow Fabio Cendão, an attorney and entrepreneur from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, regarding his fellowship, his work in Brazil, and his time at Vela Wood and in Dallas.
How Much Equity Should We Get?
From time to time we’ll get a client who asks us to help determine the equity split between co-founders. As attorneys to the company, it’s not our place to say who should get how much equity. But we can help […]
How to Angel Invest: The Process
After you’ve determined whether you’re accredited, discussed angel investing with your investment advisor, created systematic deal flow, and put your expectations in check, it’s finally time to begin the process. Here is an outline of what that looks like. Once […]
Understanding Basic Contracts: The (Ir)Relevant Title
A client reached out yesterday to ask what the difference was between an independent contractor agreement and a master services agreement. He had two sitting in his inbox – different titles, though they were for the same project. At their […]