Crowdfunding can be a powerful fundraising tool, but success requires strategic planning, strong marketing, and clear communication. If you’re prepared to put in the work and have a product or idea that excites backers, it could be a game-changer for your business.

Raising capital is a strategic process that requires careful preparation, understanding of financial instruments, and legal compliance. Whether securing funding from angel investors, venture capitalists, or through alternative financing, founders must be clear on their needs, diligent in their approach, and selective in their investor relationships.

By following these fundamentals, startups and small businesses can successfully navigate the fundraising process while laying a solid foundation for scalability and long-term success.

TikTok has emerged as a vital platform for startups and small-to-medium-sized businesses (SMBs), providing a dynamic space to engage audiences, enhance brand visibility, and drive revenue. However, the potential TikTok ban in the United States presents significant challenges for businesses that rely on the platform for growth. As the situation unfolds, startups and SMBs need to understand the implications of the ban, including legal and compliance issues, and take proactive steps to mitigate risks.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a game-changer for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), offering innovative ways to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and make data-driven decisions. From chatbots handling customer inquiries to AI-driven analytics uncovering critical business insights, the opportunities are vast. However, with these advancements come significant legal and compliance challenges that SMBs must navigate carefully. Failing to address these implications can lead to regulatory fines, reputational damage, and operational setbacks. In this article, we delve into the legal and compliance considerations of adopting AI and provide guidance for SMBs to integrate this technology responsibly.

Kick off 2025 with confidence! Discover 5 essential legal steps every startup must tackle, from contract reviews to tax compliance. Build a solid foundation for long-term success with these actionable tips. StartSmart Counsel is here to help!

Scaling your business is an exciting milestone, but growth comes with its own set of legal challenges. Here are some tips to ensure your business scales smartly and sustainably in 2025

As a startup founder, preparing for the year ahead involves more than just setting ambitious goals. It requires a solid legal and compliance foundation to ensure your business is scalable, compliant, and investor-ready. Here are key action plans tailored specifically for startups to consider in 2025.

As the calendar flips to a new year, startups and small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) have a fresh opportunity to review and strengthen their compliance practices. Legal and regulatory compliance is not just about avoiding penalties; it’s about setting your business up for sustainable growth. Below are ten key compliance areas every startup and SMB should prioritize at the start of the new year.

While the CTA’s future remains uncertain, small businesses and startups can use this time to strengthen internal practices, streamline record-keeping, and remain vigilant about developments in corporate compliance laws.

The holiday and party season is here! Customers are flocking to businesses for everything from event services and products to last-minute gifts, making it one of the busiest times of the year. But with the rush, there’s always the chance of encountering a frustrating situation: a client refusing to pay or leaving without settling their bill.

It’s unfair and inconvenient, especially during such a hectic time, but how you handle it matters. Staying calm and professional is essential to protecting your reputation and ensuring you can recover the payment. Here’s a guide to help small business owners navigate this tricky situation during the holiday rush.