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Raising Capital from Family and Friends

Raising Capital from Family and Friends

By Nina Kaufman, Esq.

They say that “fools rush in where angels fear to tread,” and the same applies to raising capital for your business from friends and family. The personal relationship should act as an extra warning flag to you that such transactions should not be treated lightly or casually. When times are hard and other sources of available credit dry to a trickle, friends and family can be a lifesaver. But whether the funds are offered to you – or you affirmatively ask for them – take them with caution. The following tips will help smooth the path and make sure everyone gets a fair deal.   1. Put it in writing. Yes, we’re lawyers, but this is an area where you do NOT want to rely on mentally “being on the same page” as your cousin or sorority sister. Any “he said, she said” disputes will never be “just business”. If anything goes awry, you’ll never stop hearing about it at family (or college) reunions. Also, having certain provisions in writing can prevent wrangling with your…

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Nina Kaufman

Flying solo doesn’t have to mean going it alone.

I’m Nina Kaufman.

I know first-hand that running a knowledge-based service business has unique challenges. It’s so much easier when you have an advocate in your corner. Over the past 25 years, I’ve worked with thousands of New York business professionals who want a legal advisor to guide and support them as they navigate the business world.

With wide-ranging experience as a business attorney, strategist, and media authority, I bring the added power of a business lens to the legal issues my clients are facing.

And because I’ve been a business owner myself, I’ve lived through the soaring highs and devastating lows – like when my first law firm failed. So I understand what’s involved to serve great clients, detect business risks early and build a true legacy.

I can’t get those 12 years back. That’s why I have made it my mission to ensure that business professionals like you can become wise and discerning leaders, build a solid business, and live your best life.