On March 31, 2022, Jerry Thomeczek, an attorney at Husch Blackwell, visited the Skandalaris Center to give an informative presentation on “Failure to Launch: Common Issues Facing New Companies.” His presentation not only shed light on how to start a company, but legal specifics and common errors while starting a new business as well. Information in this presentation included clear explanations on what files you must submit to the state, common errors, specifics on organizational planning, and more.

One of the most helpful parts of the workshop was that Thomeczeck gave in-depth explanations of legal jargon commonly heard in entrepreneurial settings, but provided simple, real-world examples that clarified any widespread confusion on the information. For example, Anheuser Busch’s acquisition of Goose Island was utilized to explain specific contractual measures.

Thomeczeck summed up the importance of the presentation by stating to never “solely rely upon your investor’s attorneys to draft documents,” or to give “oral promises to equity.”

The Skandalaris Center provides these informative workshops throughout the year to help young entrepreneurs along their journey of starting a successful business. To stay up to date on upcoming workshops, go to skandalaris.wustl.edu/events.