Startups Articles
Expert articles and practical legal guides on startups for uk businesses.
Trade Marks Vs. Copyright: What's The Difference? (2026 Updated)
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1 November 2026
What Is An Email Disclaimer? (2026 Updated)
You've probably seen them at the bottom of an email - a block of text about confidentiality, viruses, "views are my own", and a warning that the message isn't a contract. If...
31 October 2026
Getting Serious About Your Side Hustle? Don't Forget Your Legals (2026 Updated)
You start with a "small thing" on the side. A few weekend clients. A bit of Etsy income. Some consulting after work. Maybe a subscription idea you're testing with friends. Then suddenly,...
31 October 2026
Social Enterprise Legal Structure: CIC Or Company?
Choosing between a CIC, charity or limited company can shape your funding, control and profit options. Here is how to pick the right route for your social enterprise.
30 October 2026
Can I Use The TM Symbol Before Registration?
You can usually use TM before registering a trade mark in the UK. Here is how to use it safely, avoid misusing ® and decide when registration is worth it.
30 October 2026
Articles Of Association Review Before Investment
Taking investment? Your articles need to match the deal. Here's what investors look for and when you may need to amend your company rules.
30 October 2026
Option Agreement For Shares: Founder Checklist
Granting options can be a smart way to reward your team without issuing shares straight away. Here's what UK founders should check before putting anything in writing.
29 October 2026
How Much Does A Shareholders Agreement Cost?
Budgeting for a shareholders agreement? Here's what affects the cost, when a simple agreement may work and when vesting, exits or deadlocks need bespoke drafting.
29 October 2026
Startup First Hire Checklist: Contracts And Policies
Hiring your first employee is exciting, but there are a few legal documents to line up before day one. Here is the first-hire checklist your startup can use.
29 October 2026
Bridge Round Note: What Should UK Startups Check?
Raising bridge funding can move quickly. Here's what to check in your bridge round note before you sign, from discount and valuation cap to consent rights.
29 October 2026
You Registered a Trade Mark Personally. Does Your Company Own It?
Registered your trade mark personally before incorporating? That simple early step can create major ownership issues when your company grows.
29 October 2026
Commercial Lease Terms For Boutique Gyms In The UK
Reviewing heads of terms for a boutique gym or fitness studio? Here are the lease terms that can affect your opening date, costs and flexibility.
28 October 2026
How To Set Up A CIC With The Right Constitution
Setting up a CIC? Your constitution shapes how decisions are made, how assets are protected and how your social enterprise can grow from day one.
27 October 2026
Should A CIC Be Limited By Shares Or Guarantee?
Choosing between a CIC limited by shares or guarantee affects investment, control, dividends and grants. Here's how to pick the right setup before you incorporate.
27 October 2026
Information Security Policy Template: What To Include
Need an information security policy quickly for a customer review? Here is what UK startups should include, how it supports SaaS sales and where UK GDPR fits in.
26 October 2026
NDA Template For Sharing A Pitch Deck With Investors
Sending a pitch deck can feel risky when your best ideas and numbers are inside. Here's when an NDA helps, when investors may push back and what to include.
26 October 2026
Director Loan Agreement Template: What To Include
Lending money to your own company? Here's how to document a director or shareholder loan clearly, from repayment and interest to security and board approval.
26 October 2026
Do I Need A Lawyer To Set Up An EMI Scheme?
Thinking about EMI options? Here is when you can set up an EMI scheme yourself, where legal help matters, and the HMRC and Companies House steps to get right.
26 October 2026
How Much Does An EMI Scheme Cost In The UK?
Budgeting for EMI options? Here is what usually drives the cost of setup, valuation and ongoing admin, plus when a fixed-fee legal setup makes sense.
26 October 2026
Should You Use A Deed Of Accession For New Investors?
Bringing in a new investor? A deed of accession can make sure they are properly bound by your existing shareholders agreement before they receive shares.
25 October 2026
Student Brand Ambassador Agreements In The UK
Using student ambassadors can be a great growth channel. A clear agreement helps you manage commission, social posts, brand rules and campus activity from day one.
25 October 2026
How To Trade Mark A Logo For A UK Food Brand
Launching a UK food or drink brand? Here is when to protect your logo, brand name and packaging, plus how trade marks fit with suppliers and product extensions.
23 October 2026
Data Protection Principles For UK Healthtech Apps
Building a UK healthtech app? Here is how the UK GDPR principles affect your app design, privacy notices, DPIAs, suppliers and launch documents.
23 October 2026
Board Consent Packs For Startup Decisions
Making startup decisions quickly is normal, but key approvals still need a clear paper trail. Here's how board consent packs can protect your company as it grows.
21 October 2026
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