Raising capital is one of the biggest hurdles for startups. Founders need funds to grow but often want to avoid giving away too much ownership or dealing with complex debt. One flexible, founder-friendly solution is the Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE). Initially introduced by Y Combinator in 2013, SAFEs provide a straightforward way for startups to raise funds without immediate valuation discussions or diluting ownership right away.

In recent years, medical marijuana has gained traction in many states as a legitimate treatment for various health conditions. While this has been a win for patients in need, it has also created a unique challenge for small business owners who want to create a safe, fair, and compliant workplace. Balancing the needs of employees, compliance with state and federal laws, and workplace safety is no easy task, especially for small businesses with limited resources.

Starting a business requires making decisions that lay a foundation for future growth, and one of the most crucial decisions is choosing a business structure. For many startups, an S-Corp (S Corporation) can offer benefits that align well with their growth plans, financial goals, and tax preferences. Here’s an in-depth look at when using an S-Corp might be right for your startup.

For health tech startups, compliance is not just a regulatory box to check—it’s a commitment to data privacy, security, and trustworthiness. By integrating these compliance practices from the start, your company can focus on innovation, safe in the knowledge that it’s meeting industry standards. Compliance is an essential foundation that not only protects users but also positions your health tech startup for sustainable growth in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

An affiliate agreement is more than just a contract—it’s a roadmap for a successful partnership. By setting clear terms, protecting your brand’s interests, and fostering open communication, you can create lasting and productive relationships with your affiliates. With a well-drafted affiliate agreement, your brand can grow its reach, drive sales, and maintain brand integrity across every platform.

Beyoncé’s trademark battle over "Blue Ivy Carter" underscores the importance of a well-planned trademark strategy, no matter your business size. For startups and SMEs, understanding the trademarking process, from research and selection to navigating objections, can be vital to long-term success. With the right approach, you can secure a trademark that strengthens your brand’s identity and protects it from potential misuse in the marketplace.

Congratulations to StartSmart Counsel Managing Attorney Jennifer  for being appointed as a member of the SEC’s Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee. The Committee was established by the SEC Small Business Advocate Act of 2016 and is designed to provide a formal mechanism for the Commission to receive advice and recommendations on Commission rules, regulations and policy matters relating to small businesses, including smaller public companies. The Committee is comprised of an experienced and diverse set of companies, advisors, entrepreneurs, and investors who will advise the Commission on facilitating capital-raising opportunities for small- and medium-sized businesses and expanding investment opportunities for retail investors. Please see the SEC press release for a full list of the Committee’s inaugural members as well as more information about the Committee:  The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Press Release

As the holiday season approaches, retail businesses of all sizes are preparing for the year’s busiest time. Along with stocking shelves and amping up promotions, it’s crucial to have clear and compliant refund and return policies in place. These policies help set customer expectations, streamline processes, and protect your business from potential misunderstandings. Plus, compliance with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) rules is essential to avoid hefty fines and maintain consumer trust.

Here’s how small-to-medium-sized retail enterprises (SMEs) can get their refund and return policies holiday-ready while ensuring FTC compliance.

Starting a business comes with crucial decisions, one of which is choosing the right business structure. For many startups, the choice boils down to either a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or an S Corporation (S-Corp). While both offer liability protection and certain tax benefits, each has unique advantages that may be better suited for different business goals. Here’s a guide on how to determine when an LLC might be the right choice over an S-Corp.

As live chat features become increasingly popular for businesses, staying compliant with privacy laws is more important than ever. Consent is the key to avoiding legal complications. Whether you operate in a two-party consent state or simply collect customer data for business purposes, it’s essential to be transparent about your chat practices and obtain the necessary consent from users.