Resources for insight and
inspiration
Guides
Insights
Equity Dilution Demystified: What Every Startup Founder Needs to Know
In the startup world, few concepts spark as much anxiety as equity dilution. Many founders assume dilution is always negative, but the reality is more nuanced. Equity dilution is a natural and often necessary part of growth. By understanding its mechanics, you can manage dilution strategically and build long-term value.
Decoding 409A Valuations: Navigating the Complexities of Startup Stock Valuation
In the high-stakes world of startup equity, understanding 409A valuations isn't just a compliance checkbox—it's a critical strategy that can make or break your company's financial health and employee compensation framework.
FAQs
Open allIt depends on the agreement. Without clear terms, disputes often arise over whether the licensee or licensor owns enhancements.
They can be flat fees, per-user charges, or revenue-based percentages. Audit rights are critical to confirm accurate reporting.
Exclusivity can motivate partners but carries risk. If granted, tie exclusivity to performance obligations like sales targets or minimum royalties.
Selling transfers ownership permanently, while licensing allows others to use your IP under defined terms while you retain ownership.
Exclusivity can motivate partners but carries risk. If granted, tie exclusivity to performance obligations like sales targets or minimum royalties.
Selling transfers ownership permanently, while licensing allows others to use your IP under defined terms while you retain ownership.
Yes, but only if termination rights are included. Contracts should cover notice periods, treatment of unsold inventory, and customer transition plans.
They should state that your startup retains ownership of all IP, while the distributor only gets limited rights to sell your product.
Exclusivity can motivate strong performance but is risky if the distributor underdelivers. Consider tying exclusivity to sales targets.
A reseller agreement usually involves buying and reselling at a markup, while a distribution agreement often grants broader rights to market, sell, and support products in a defined territory.
Yes, but only if your agreement allows it. Ensure your contract includes termination rights and addresses ownership of tooling and designs so you can move production.
Include strict IP ownership and confidentiality clauses, use dual-language contracts, and consider arbitration in neutral jurisdictions to enforce rights.
Your agreement should outline inspection rights, rejection procedures, and remedies such as refunds, replacements, or penalties.
They protect your startup by setting clear standards for quality, ownership, liability, and delivery. Without one, you risk disputes, defects, and loss of control over your product.
They protect your startup from disputes over scope, missed deadlines, unexpected costs, confidentiality breaches, and liability for vendor mistakes.
In most cases, your startup should own the IP produced under the contract. Otherwise, you may only receive a license, limiting your rights.
You can, but vendor-provided contracts usually favor their interests. It’s important to review and negotiate terms that protect your business.
They are often used interchangeably. Both define the terms under which a third party provides goods or services to your startup.
Covered Entities can terminate the agreement, and regulators can impose significant fines for HIPAA violations. Startups risk both legal penalties and reputational damage.
Yes. If you use vendors like cloud hosts, analytics firms, or development shops that access PHI, they may need Sub-BAAs to flow down HIPAA obligations.