The Founder’s Checklist for Early-Stage Financing

Before launching the next financing round for your startup, make sure you have your bases covered in this lunch-and-learn presented by business law attorney, Matthew Bower. We’ll be covering important considerations that help ensure a smooth closing, how to vet and disclose material information to investors, and what you need to know about “finders” who can introduce you to investors.

This event is hosted by 20Fathoms in partnership with Varnum.

Event format:

This is an in-person event and lunch will be provided. There is no charge to attend.

Space is limited. Please register.

Who should attend:

Founders and startup leadership team members

You will learn:

• The founder’s checklist for early-stage financing rounds
• Your disclosure obligations to your investors
• How to use “finders” to find capital

About the presenter:

Matthew Bower is a Business Law Attorney at Varnum. He serves as outside general counsel to emerging and middle market companies, particularly in the tech industry.

Matt advises emerging companies on capital fundraising, including SAFE financing, convertible debt, preferred equity financing, as well as securities law compliance. He works closely with companies from cradle (formation and organization) to liquidity (sale or merger) and all stages of development in between. Matt’s experience in the early-stage capital markets includes fund representation, fund formation and investments. He also works with middle market companies on general internal corporation matters including shareholder agreements, corporate governance, equity incentive plans, investor relations, general contract matters and other day-to-day business transactions.

Matt also has extensive experience in a broad range of intellectual property matters particularly protection and commercialization, including development, licensing, and SaaS agreements.

Matt is a member of Varnum’s Business and Corporate Practice Team, and participates in the Intellectual Property, the Data Privacy and Cybersecurity, and the Venture Capital and Emerging Companies practice teams. He is also the lead partner of the firm’s Ann Arbor office.

About 20Fathoms

20Fathoms is the home of technology and entrepreneurship in Northern Michigan. We catalyze innovation and entrepreneurship through startup incubation services, business workshops, community partnership, and a vibrant coworking space. We also remove barriers and accelerate career growth through tech career training, talent acquisition, and the advancement of regional strategic initiatives.