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Startup Legal gives founders the practical legal foundations every early-stage company needs—but too often overlooks. In this course, you’ll learn how to structure your entity, protect your IP, formalize founder relationships, navigate contracts, and avoid the costly mistakes that slow companies down. Designed for first-time founders and fast-scaling teams, it breaks down the complex legal essentials into clear, actionable steps so you can build with confidence, stay compliant, and protect the future of your startup from day one.

key topics

ENTITY FORMATION & FOUNDER AGREEMENTS
—Choosing the right structure, splitting equity, and setting clear roles from the start.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY PROTECTION
—Securing trademarks, copyrights, patents, and ownership of all created assets.

CONTRACTS & RISK MANAGEMENT
—Understanding essential contracts, negotiation basics, and how to avoid common liabilities.

COMPLIANCE, GOVERNANCE & RECORDKEEPING
—Staying legally compliant, maintaining corporate hygiene, and preparing for investor diligence.

STARTS: xxx

LENGTH: 6 Weeks

FORMAT: Self-paced + Live Office Hours

OFFICE HOURS: Weekly, Txxx

OFFERED: Once a year

PRICE
HarvardAE Members $399

Non Members $499

Subscription Elegible

Does not include transaction fees. No refunds.

Enroll Now

Who should TAKE THIS COURSE

Founders & Entrepreneur-Leaders  

Why: To build a solid legal foundation early in the venture journey and avoid mistakes that become costly at Series A and beyond.

Startup Operations / Legal/Finance Leads 

Why: To apply practical legal frameworks that prevent common pitfalls and ensure the company can scale cleanly and compliantly.

Startup Advisors & Investors

Why: To guide founders toward legal readiness with clarity, rigor, and best-practice standards that protect long-term value.

Features

  • This course provides a comprehensive and engaging learning experience, combining pre-recorded sessions, expert presentations, thought-provoking case studies, and interactive group discussions. Designed to deliver practical insights and actionable strategies, this immersive program equips you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate complex challenges and propel you toward success.

  • This course emphasizes the power of peer learning through collaborative, small-group sessions. By engaging with fellow entrepreneurs and business leaders, you’ll exchange insights, tackle challenges, and refine strategies in real time. These peer group discussions foster diverse perspectives, offering fresh ideas and practical solutions to complex problems. This collaborative approach not only deepens your understanding but also builds a supportive network of like-minded professionals to help you succeed long after the program concludes.

  • This course features expert guest speakers who bring real-world experience and deep industry insights to the table. By learning directly from accomplished professionals, you’ll gain valuable perspectives on navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and achieving success. These sessions provide a unique chance to hear practical advice, ask questions, and connect with leaders who have excelled in their fields. This access to expertise not only enhances your knowledge but also inspires new strategies to apply in your own journey.

  • As part of this course you’ll gain exclusive access to a dedicated learning portal, where all course materials, insights, and resources will be available for 30 days after the program concludes. This extended access allows you to revisit key learnings, dive deeper into the content, and apply what you've learned at your own pace. It’s an invaluable tool to reinforce your knowledge and ensure you maximize the impact of the course on your journey.

  • Our 60- and 180-day check-ins help you stay accountable, refine your strategy, and ensure your Go-To-Market plan is turning into measurable traction.