Baker Donelson’s Emerging Companies and Venture Capital Practice Fuels the Future of Emerging Companies.
With a deep bench of attorneys who understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced by early-stage companies and rapid-growth ventures, Baker Donelson’s Emerging Companies and Venture Capital (ECVC) team is a trusted partner for entrepreneurs and investors across a wide range of industries. The team offers strategic guidance that is both comprehensive and tailored to the needs of each company at every stage – from the earliest stages of ideation to successful exits.
A Full Life Cycle Partner for Startups
Baker Donelson’s ECVC practice is built around the idea that legal and business services should evolve with a company’s growth. The firm supports clients through every phase of development – from entity formation and founder agreements to venture capital financing, intellectual property protection, and M&A. With a highly collaborative approach, the team works closely with founders to understand their vision, align legal strategies with business goals and objectives, and anticipate roadblocks that often accompany early-stage companies. This encompasses a mastery of and ability to advise on capital structure, governance, employment matters, and regulatory compliance – critical areas to long term success.
A standout feature of the practice and team is its commitment to accessibility. Baker Donelson offers fixed-fee legal services and educational programming specifically for startups, making high quality legal counsel more attainable for early-stage ventures. This model reflects the firm’s belief that innovation should not be hindered by legal complexity or cost barriers
A Strategic Resource for Raising Capital
Capital is a precious resource and the lifeblood of any emerging company, and Baker Donelson’s ECVC team brings deep experience in structuring and negotiating financing transactions. Whether it’s an angel investment, convertible notes, SAFEs, or multi-stage priced venture capital rounds, the firm provides clients with strategic guidance to secure funding on favorable terms.
The firm’s lawyers are skilled negotiators who understand the nuances of investor expectations and market dynamics. They help clients navigate term sheets, protect founder equity, and build relationships with investors—ensuring the best outcome for their clients.
Technology and Innovation at the Core
Baker Donelson’s ECVC practice is particularly strong in technology-driven sectors and provides counsel on all types of business transactions involving the purchase, sale and licensing of technology products and services. The firm’s Business Technology Group, with over 150 years of combined experience, advises clients on licensing, data privacy, cyber security, and the commercialization of intellectual property.
A Legacy of Results
Baker Donelson’s track record speaks for itself. For over 130 years, Baker Donelson has built a reputation for achieving results for their clients, both nationally and internationally, on a wide range of legal matters. The firm has represented clients in landmark ECVC transactions, including a $47 million equity investment and a record-setting domain name sale valued at nearly $5 million. These successes underscore the firm’s ability to deliver results that drive growth and create value.
But beyond the numbers, what sets Baker Donelson apart is its commitment to relationships. The firm’s attorneys are known for their responsiveness, creativity, and genuine investment in their clients’ success. While providing legal services is a key driver, it is the delivery of those services that sets the firm apart. They don’t just close deals—they build futures.
