Overview
Join Torys for a practical session over lunch on the structural and governance decisions early-stage founders should make before sitting down with investors.
Through a mix of guided exercises and collaborative problem-solving, you will learn how to get your house in order early, so that when financing conversations begin, you can focus on the deal rather than scrambling to fix foundational issues.
Who Should Attend
- Startup leaders who are unsure of their current corporate structure.
- Early-stage (pre-seed to Series A) founders from the SR Ecosystem.
- Founders who are considering U.S. expansion.
- Researchers and scientists interested in commercialization, such as spinoffs and startup formation.
Key Takeaways
Your startup’s legal structure not only shapes how it operates, but also directly impacts your ability to attract investment. When it comes time to start thinking about raising funding, an investor will assess your startup’s legal structure. If things are not up to the standard they expect, it can result in delays, additional costs, or potentially less favourable deal terms. This session will provide a practical framework to help you assess your startup’s structure in the early days and help you get investor-ready so you can avoid future friction.
You’ll leave with answers to questions like:
- What do investors expect to see?
- Is my capital structure clear?
- Are there any gaps in my legal documents?
- What diligence issues can I resolve now so they don’t become sticking points at the term sheet stage?
- How should I structure my Board from the outset?
- Should I move my company to the U.S. because an investor wants me to?
Lunch will be served. Spaces are limited.
Speakers
Konata Lake
Partner, Head of Torys’ Emerging Companies and Venture Capital Group
Konata is the head of Torys’ Emerging Companies and Venture Capital Group and a member of the M&A and Technology Groups. As a leader in startup law, Konata gives holistic support to entrepreneurs and investors within the emerging technology ecosystem. He counsels entrepreneurs on the day-to-day matters they face as they scale and provides strategies and advice on key issues including raising capital, structuring, equity arrangements, and founder and shareholder agreements. His experience practicing in the U.S. and Canada allows him to provide comprehensive advice on cross-border transactions, helping clients expand their footprint in Canada, the U.S. and internationally. Konata is recognized as a leading lawyer in startups and emerging companies, and in M&A and technology law.
Shane Thomas
Senior Associate, Torys’ Toronto & New York Offices
Shane routinely advises innovative healthcare and high-growth technology companies and their investors, from pioneering early-stage development to late-stage growth. Shane works with companies and investors in both the U.S. and Canada. As a trusted legal advisor, Shane has a proven track record of success in helping clients achieve their business objectives. Whether advising on corporate governance matters, negotiating complex financing transactions, or providing strategic counsel on commercial agreements in connection with product development and commercialization, Shane is committed to delivering practical and effective legal solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs.
Details
Date: Wednesday June 17, 2026
Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Schwartz Reisman Innovation Campus
Register
Spots are limited. Waitlist preference will be granted to members of the SR Ecosystem.
