Berlin – Commercial law firm CMS is launching equIP, a new programme for young innovative digital companies. The objective of equIP is to support selected high potential start-ups via exclusive services and international full-service legal advice from CMS, to prepare them for the next financing round and accompany them through to exit. Promising companies from the tech, media and IT sectors can now apply to join the equIP programme and benefit from the industry expertise of CMS’s lawyers.
Insightful strategic support to reach the next level
CMS has a long track record of supporting start-ups across all development stages as they build a successful future. Especially in the initial phase, company founders often fail to seek legal advice to ensure that their business model is legally sound and ready for the next major step in the firm’s development. This is where CMS comes in with equIP. Dr Hilke Herchen, partner and co-head of Corporate/M&A at CMS, commented: “The equIP programme leverages our role as an innovation advisor to provide young companies with forward-looking, responsive legal advice that takes account of the specific needs of a fast-growing business model at every level.” equIP comprises tailored legal advice at discounted rates as well as exclusive mentoring services from CMS lawyers and strategic support around key issues relating to the business model. Participants gain access to the international CMS network and to major players in the digital and tech market.
From legal health check to dedicated data room
Companies that join the equIP programme benefit from the close ties between CMS lawyers and key investors and corporate players, while also gaining access to a broad wealth of legal experience and innovative services. An initial legal health check supported by CMS’s own Smart Operations unit at the EUREF campus in Berlin sees companies receiving advice from the viewpoint of a potential investor and being prepared for the next rounds of financing. If required, the data room and the legal fact book will be kept updated.
Dr Sebastian Cording, partner and head of the TMC practice, said: “CMS sees itself as an innovation driver. By taking part in equIP, companies benefit not only from wide-ranging legal expertise but also from practical advice in the fast-growing digital and tech market. The programme provides the support needed to win over investors or to achieve a smooth exit further down the road.”
Up to 20 companies a year will be selected by a jury of experts to have this opportunity to ensure their business model is legally sound in Germany and beyond, to strike out in innovative new directions and to boost their profitability by adopting appropriate strategies.
Full information about the programme and the application process is available here.
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