Term Sheets – What Founders Need to Know
Workshop Overview
A term sheet is one of the most important documents in an investment round. It sets out the key commercial and legal principles that will shape the relationship between founders and investors — but for many founders, understanding which terms really matter can be challenging.
In this practical workshop, Neil Jones, Partner at Simons Muirhead Burton, will demystify venture capital term sheets and explain what founders need to understand before entering negotiations with investors.
Neil will explore the key provisions commonly found in a term sheet, why investors negotiate certain protections, what founders should pay particular attention to, and the practical implications different terms can have on ownership, control and future funding rounds.
The session is designed to give founders greater confidence when reviewing, discussing and negotiating investment terms.
What You’ll Learn
By the end of the session, attendees will have a clearer understanding of:
How investors approach and negotiate term sheets — and why
The key commercial and legal provisions found in a term sheet
Which terms founders should pay closest attention to
The appropriate level of detail to include at term sheet stage
How different terms can affect founders, shareholders and future investment rounds
Common pitfalls and mistakes founders should avoid
How to approach term sheet discussions more confidently and effectively
Who Should Attend
This workshop is particularly relevant for:
Startup founders preparing to raise equity investment
Founders currently speaking with angel investors, VCs or investment funds
Entrepreneurs expecting to receive or negotiate a term sheet
Business owners who want to better understand the legal and commercial mechanics of venture capital investment
Advisers and professionals supporting early-stage and growth businesses
About the Speaker
Neil Jones
Partner, Simons Muirhead Burton
Neil Jones is a corporate technology lawyer with extensive experience advising businesses on venture capital funding rounds, corporate restructurings, acquisitions and exits, share option schemes and board governance matters.
He represents technology companies throughout their growth journey and supports founders in achieving their investment and strategic objectives.
Neil has particular experience across the FinTech, AI, MusicTech, EdTech, SportsTech and HealthTech sectors.
Alongside his work with founders and technology businesses, Neil also advises venture capital funds and investors on investments into high-growth companies, giving him valuable insight into investment transactions from both sides of the table.
Why Attend?
If you are planning to raise equity investment, understanding the term sheet before negotiations begin can make a significant difference.
This session will help you understand what investors are looking for, recognise the terms that could materially affect your business, and enter investment discussions better informed and better prepared.