Oppenhoff : Start-up Desk
The Oppenhoff: Start-up Desk supports startups, scale-ups, and founders with practical legal advice at every stage - innovative, pragmatic, and on equal footing.
- Full-service consulting in your areas of focus
- Support at every stage
- What makes us special for startups
- Strong network
- FAQ
As a founder, you know: The journey from the initial idea to a successful exit is full of challenges. Funding rounds, employee stock options, data protection, contract negotiations with investors - the legal hurdles are numerous. That’s where the Oppenhoff : Start-up Desk is by your side.
We are more than just your commercial law firm. We are your sparring partner who speaks the language of startups and understands what drives founders. We offer legal expertise with a genuine understanding of tech, data & AI, and digital business models.
Full-service advice in your key areas
Start-ups encounter a wide variety of legal issues as they develop. The Oppenhoff : Start-up Desk offers you comprehensive expertise in the areas that matter most to you:
Tech, Data & AI
Employment
IP – Intellectual Property
Venture Capital (VC) & Financing
Commercial
Support at every stage
Building a successful company presents you with ever-changing challenges. At every stage of your startup - from incorporation to exit - you’ll face different issues. We’re by your side throughout each of these phases.
Incorporation & Early Stage
- Choice of legal structure
- Incorporation documents and shareholder agreements
- Initial IP strategy
- Initial regulatory consultation
Seed & Series A
- Negotiations with Business Angels and VCs
- Term Sheets and Investment Agreements
- Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOP/VSOP)
- Commercial Contracts with Customers
Growth & Scale-up
- Further Financing Rounds
- International Expansion
- Compliance and Corporate Governance
- Strategic Partnerships
Exit
- M&A Transactions
- IPO Preparation
- Sale to Strategic Investors
- Secondary Transactions
The Oppenhoff : Start-up Program
What We Offer
- Free initial consultation on topics tailored to your needs
- Preferential terms throughout the entire support phase
- Access to our network of experts and exclusive events
- Practical solutions tailored to the realities of startups for all legal and strategic questions
Your Application
Would you like to join the Oppenhoff : Startup Program? Fill out the application form and upload your pitch deck. We’ll get back to you shortly to discuss the next steps - with no obligation.
Please fill in all the required fields and upload your pitch deck. We will review your application and get back to you shortly.
What Makes Us Special for Startups
Practical Recommendations
We don’t provide complex legal opinions, but rather pragmatic solutions. Our recommendations are tailored to the reality of startups.
A Sparring Partner on Equal Footing
With us, you’re not just a case number. We see ourselves as your sparring partner, working with you to run through scenarios, weigh risks, and develop the best strategy.
Innovative and pragmatic
As a corporate law firm focused on digitalization and transformation, we know how important innovative approaches are. We think ahead with you and find creative ways through the legal jungle.
Full-service from a single source
With over 100 attorneys in Cologne and Frankfurt and a firm history spanning over 110 years, we offer you expertise in all areas of business law - coordinated by your personal contact at the Start-up Desk.
Strong network
Our partnerships with start-up hubs such as Campus Founders and STARTPLATZ, as well as our international firm network, open doors for you that would otherwise remain closed.
FAQ : Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Oppenhoff : Start-up Program suitable for?
The program is aimed at start-ups and scale-ups with a marketable product or viable business concept, preferably from innovative sectors such as Tech, Data & AI, Digital Business, Healthcare, InsureTech/FinTech, or Aerospace & Defense.
What requirements must my start-up meet?
A compelling business idea and a competent team are key. Ideally, you haven’t yet secured Series A funding but can already demonstrate an MVP or a validated business model.
What does it cost to participate in the program?
Participation in the Oppenhoff Start-up Program is free of charge. Accepted start-ups receive a free initial consultation as well as significantly discounted rates for all legal advisory services.
How do I apply?
Fill out our online application form and upload a short pitch deck. We’ll get back to you shortly to schedule a personal introductory meeting.
Do you also advise investors?
Yes, we advise venture capital funds, business angels, strategic investors, and family offices on their investments. That’s why we know both sides of the negotiating table.
How does the collaboration work?
After being accepted into the Oppenhoff Startup Program, you’ll be assigned a dedicated contact person who understands your needs and will bring in the right experts as needed. Communication on an equal footing and quick response times are a given for us.