Attorney Nicole Moss is a corporate and securities attorney with operations-side expertise. General Counsel with formation, governance, corporate strategy, and go-to-market execution experience.

This exciting conversation is hosted by Matt Wilhelmi, owner of Strategic Voyages Business Consultants and author of “Taboo Business Questions: What’s Haunting Every Entrepreneur’s Growth.”

Nicole Moss and Matt Wilhelmi – Episode 1

I’m thrilled to introduce our new series “Firm Foundations in Startups Looking for Money,” where I, Matt Wilhelmi, owner of Strategic Voyages Business Consultants, dive deep into the world of startup funding with the brilliant Nicole Moss! 🌟

In our first episode, we explore Nicole’s extensive background in venture capital and mergers and acquisitions, discussing a fascinating case study of a diamond manufacturing startup. 💎

Key Takeaways:

• 📅 When to Consult an Attorney: Learn the importance of early legal guidance.
• 📄 Common Legal Pitfalls: Avoid common startup mistakes with Nicole’s expert advice.
• 📝 Proper Documentation and Compliance: Ensure your startup’s paperwork is in order.
• 💼 Case Study: Navigate the funding challenges of a diamond manufacturing startup.

Stay tuned for a sneak peek into Episode 2, where we dive into cautionary tales from the startup world! 🚨

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Nicole Moss and Matt Wilhelmi – Episode 2

In the second episode, Nicole Moss and I delve into real-life cautionary tales that illustrate the pitfalls startups can encounter without proper legal guidance. 😱

Stories Highlighted:

1. 🚫 Equity Promises Gone Wrong: Learn from a startup’s mistake of promising equity without proper vesting.
2. ⚠️ DIY Fundraising Fiasco: Understand the chaos of raising pre-seed funds without legal counsel.
3. 💼 Consultant for Equity Disaster: Discover the mess that follows when paying consultants in equity without clear terms.

Key Takeaways:

• 📑 Proper Vesting in Equity Agreements: Protect your company’s equity.
• 🛑 Risks of DIY Fundraising: Avoid the pitfalls of going it alone.
• 🤝 Value of Legal Advice: The importance of having an entrepreneurial-minded attorney.

Stay tuned for Episode 3, where we provide actionable solutions to these common issues. 🎯

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Nicole Moss and Matt Wilhelmi – Episode 3

In the third episode, Nicole Moss and I shift from identifying problems to presenting actionable solutions for startups facing fundraising challenges. 🛠️

Case Study Recap:

We revisit the case of a synthetic diamond manufacturing company that received $100,000 for equipment and is looking to raise an additional $500,000. 💎

Key Solutions:

• 💰 Clarifying Initial Investments: The importance of defining the structure of initial investments.
• 💡 Using Convertible Notes: A strategic tool for early-stage fundraising.
• 📊 Capital Structure Modeling: Understanding dilution impacts before and after fundraising rounds.
• 📄 Ensuring Compliance: Proper documentation to avoid future legal complications.

Highlights:

• 🏦 Equity vs. Debt: Clarifying initial investments.
• 🔄 Convertible Notes Benefits: Strategic early-stage fundraising.
• 📈 Capital Structure Modeling: Importance for future fundraising.
• ✅ Proper Documentation: Ensuring compliance to avoid legal issues.

Join us as we discuss critical steps startups must take to solidify their business model, clarify ownership, and prepare for future funding rounds. This episode is packed with practical insights to help entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of raising capital responsibly. 🌟