Thinking of funding your own startup? Before you cut that check, make sure you’re doing it the right way. The way you structure your initial investment whether as a capital contribution or a loan can have a major impact on your taxes and how you get paid back. Every dollar you put in should work for you, not against you.

Thinking about loaning money to your own company? Be careful if you don’t structure it correctly, the IRS could treat it as a capital contribution, meaning you lose key protections. Learn the right way to document your loan so you can get paid first and avoid investor challenges.

Raising capital is exciting, but every investment round means giving up equity. The real question isn’t how much you own it’s how much it’s worth. Too many founders focus on keeping a big slice of the pie instead of making the whole pie bigger. The right strategy ensures that even with dilution, your stake increases in value. Want to navigate funding without losing control? Let’s make sure your growth works for you, not against you.

Founders, let’s talk TAXES!
Your capital contribution isn’t just a number it impacts your tax bill, your losses, and what you owe when you cash out. If your basis is too low, you could be hit with unexpected taxes. If it’s high enough, you might owe nothing on distributions. Don’t let tax surprises derail your success!

Equity is the foundation of what makes your business valuable to potential investors. In this clip from my Techsgiving talk, I break down why equity matters for founders and startup owners and how it impacts investors’ decisions to support your venture. Understanding equity isn’t just about numbers it’s about knowing how to strategically structure it to attract and retain the right investors.

Navigating the world of fundraising can feel like a maze so many paths, so many potential pitfalls. But with the right strategy and tools, you can chart a clear course to success. Learn how to dodge common obstacles, align with investors, and build the funding roadmap your business needs to thrive.

Thinking about raising funds for your startup through crowdfunding? It’s a powerful way to secure capital, but ensuring compliance with the SEC is critical. Missteps can lead to significant penalties and legal trouble. In this video, I break down key steps to handle SEC requirements during a crowdfunding campaign. Don’t let paperwork derail your funding efforts let’s make sure you’re set up for success.

Ever heard of a buyer note? When structuring the purchase of a business, a buyer note can be a powerful tool. It’s a loan agreement where the buyer pays a portion of the purchase price over time, offering flexibility and bridging the gap in financing. This strategy can open doors for entrepreneurs while ensuring sellers are protected.

Buying a business but nervous about getting burned? An Escrow Agreement can be your safety net. Here’s how it works: set aside a portion of the purchase price (say, 10%) with a third-party escrow agent. Once you’ve taken over the business, if everything checks out, the funds are released to the seller. If not, you get your money back.