An intro to Vesting and Warrants by Highbridge

Join us for an enlightening afternoon with Søren Munk Hansen and Søren Jacob Frederik Holmblad from Highbridge designed specifically for startup founders, where we will unfold key aspects of vesting and warrant programs. This event gives you a insights into vesting practices. This event is an opportunity for startup founders to gain insights, share experiences, and network with peers navigating similar challenges. Whether you're new to the concept of vesting or looking to refine your existing policies, you'll leave with a wealth of knowledge and strategies to apply to your venture.

Program

14.30: Arrival and coffee

15.00: Welcome by Startup Aarhus and Highbridge.

15.05: Vesting and warrant programs deep dive by Highbridge partners Søren Munk Hansen and Søren Jacob Frederik Holmblad

16.30: Networking with other founders and 1 on 1 time with Highbridge

17.00: Thank you and goodbye

The content for the event will consist of 3 key blocks:

1: Why vesting?
2: A founders/co-founders guide to vesting
3: Warrant programs for employees and advisors.

1: Why Vesting? An Introductory Overview
Vesting is not just a formal procedure; it's a strategic tool introduced to align long-term interests and incentivize commitment. However, it's essential to acknowledge a harsh reality: not all founding members stay until the end. This segment will set the stage for understanding the "why" behind vesting.

2: Vesting Unpacked: A Founder's Guide
Dive deep into the intricacies of vesting within a founder's context:

• Grasp the essence of the "Key Person Clause" and its implications.
• Learn how vesting ties into scenarios of departure - be it on good terms, bad, or neutral.
• Market standard for vesting, including details like the vesting period with its cliff, different vesting schedules, and the repercussions for leavers.
• Address practical challenges, from dead equity and fairness issues to governance dilemmas when founder shares aren't repurchased.
• Unveil strategies for resetting vesting schedules in the face of new investment rounds.
  

3: Warrant Programs Demystified
Beyond founder shares, we'll explore vesting in the context of warrant programs for employees and advisors:

• Understand the distinction between shares and warrants, and why it matters for your cap table.
• The difference between vesting schemes for founders versus employees, considering aspects like trial periods and cap table impacts.
• Compare standard market practices for warrant vesting, including the vesting period and its cliff, alongside the consequences for different types of leavers.

About Highbridge
Highbridge is a boutique law firm for startups, growth companies and investors. Specialists in startup matters, seed and venture capital law, and mergers and acquisitions, we take away the growing pains of growing companies.

Learn More: https://highbridge.dk