Startups & Investment
Legal setup for startups in Portugal: startup recognition, structuring for investment, shareholder agreements and protecting your IP.
Provided by VPA — Venture Partners Advogados, a law firm registered with the Portuguese Bar Association, with offices in Lisbon and Rio de Janeiro.
Overview
VPA helps founders build startups that are ready to raise. We advise on startup recognition under the Portuguese Startup Law, on the right structure for investors, shareholder agreements (vesting, good/bad leaver, tag and drag), option plans, funding rounds and term sheets, and on protecting the intellectual property the business is built on. We work alongside the incorporation and tax teams so the whole setup holds together.
Common processes
- Startup recognition (Startup Law)
- Structuring for investment
- Shareholder agreements
- Vesting and option plans
- Funding rounds and term sheets
- IP protection
Frequently asked questions
How do I get my startup recognised?
The Portuguese Startup Law sets the criteria for the status. We check eligibility and handle the application.
What structure do investors expect?
Usually a clean cap table, a shareholder agreement and clear IP ownership. We put those in place before you raise.
What is a shareholder agreement for?
It governs how founders and investors work together: vesting, decisions, exits and protections. We tailor it to your round.
How do I protect my startup's IP?
By making sure the company owns the IP and, where relevant, registering trademarks. We coordinate with our IP team.
Related areas
Specialists
Contact
For advice on this service, contact VPA — Venture Partners Advogados, Lisbon.