Companies often use equity incentives to reward key members of their workforce and attract and retain the best talent. In the UK, companies have typically granted EMI options (a government‑backed, tax-advantageous share option) or unapproved options. However, where a company is unable to grant EMI options (for example, because the…
What is an accelerator? An accelerator is an entity that provides a fixed-term, cohort-based program designed to accelerate growth and support disruptive and innovative early-stage businesses. They can be generalist or specialist and are located all around the world. Who are they? Probably the most well-known accelerator is Y Combinator…
In recent years, equity (or investment-based) crowdfunding has been growing as an alternative source of funding for early stage biotech companies. This is due to the increasing availability of capital and willingness of the general public to invest in innovative companies, the potential speed and efficiency gains for companies compared…
Investments in early stage life sciences companies often provide that payments are tranched over time, subject to satisfying agreed milestones. This is normal, but in this abnormal market, stakeholders are approaching tranched investments with more caution. As a starting point, where milestones and other completion conditions are met, the investor…
