Model Term Sheet for a Series A Round (BVCA)
Jurisdiction
England and WalesContract party
Relevant sectors
Type of legal document
📃 Investment Agreement Term SheetBusiness activity
Agree an investment term sheetA investment agreement term sheet is a document that outlines the major terms and conditions of a proposed investment transaction, and is typically used to precede the drafting of a more detailed legally binding agreement. The term sheet sets forth the key terms and provisions of the proposed transaction, and provides the framework within which the parties will negotiate the final terms of their agreement.
The template aims to establish a set of standard terms and conditions that guide the negotiation and structuring of investments in early-stage companies seeking growth capital. It follows the best practices recommended by the British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association (BVCA).
This Model Term Sheet serves as the initial agreement that outlines the key terms and conditions of the investment, providing a framework that can later be used to create definitive legal documentation. It covers a wide range of essential aspects, including but not limited to:
1. Company information: Pertinent details about the startup, such as its legal name, registered address, company registration number, and industry.
2. Investment details: The total amount of investment sought, minimum and maximum investment thresholds, and the proposed equity stake the investor would receive in return for their investment.
3. Share classes and rights: Specifies the type and class of shares being offered, highlighting any special rights, privileges, or preferences associated with those shares.
4. Valuation and pre-money valuation cap: Determines the startup's valuation for the purpose of calculating the investment amount and the investor's equity stake. It may also include a pre-money valuation cap to protect the investor in case of further fundraising at a significantly higher valuation.
5. Dilution protection: Addresses mechanisms to safeguard the investor against future dilution of their ownership percentage, such as preemptive rights, anti-dilution provisions, or participation rights.
6. Dividend policy: Outlines the startup's policy regarding distributions or dividends to shareholders, if applicable.
7. Liquidation preferences: Specifies the order of priority in which the investors will receive their investment back in the event of a liquidation or sale of the company.
8. Board composition and voting rights: Determines the number of board seats each party will be entitled to, along with voting rights and protocols for decision-making.
9. Information rights and investor protection: Establishes the level of information and financial reporting the startup must provide to the investor, enabling proper monitoring and assessment of the company's performance.
10. Lock-up periods, exit rights, and drag-along provisions: Outlines any restrictions on transferring or selling shares, as well as the terms for potential exit opportunities and the investor's ability to participate in the sale of the company.
11. Governing law and dispute resolution: Specifies that the agreement will be governed by UK law and outlines procedures for resolving any potential disputes that may arise.
Please note that this is a general description, and the actual template may contain more detailed provisions according to the specific requirements and considerations of the parties involved. It is advisable to consult legal professionals for advice and customization to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
How it works
Try using Genie's Free AI Legal Assistant
Generate quality, formatted contracts with AI
Can’t find the right template? Create the bespoke agreement in minutes by conversing with our AI and tailoring to your needs
Let our Legal AI make edits for you
Ask Genie to edit your document in the same way you’d ask a paralegal. Genie makes track changes, and explains its thinking just like a junior lawyer would.
AI review
Can’t find the right template? Create the bespoke agreement in minutes by conversing with our AI and tailoring to your needs
Book your personalised demo now
Similar legal templates
Pension Clauses For Employment Contracts
The template covers various aspects related to pensions, encompassing both defined benefit and defined contribution pension schemes, as well as any other relevant retirement plans. It outlines the necessary provisions that employers should include in their contracts to meet legal obligations and safeguard the rights and benefits of their employees.
The document includes sections dedicated to explaining the legal framework surrounding pensions in the UK, ensuring readers are informed about relevant legislation, regulations, and industry best practices. It also highlights the importance of employers meeting auto-enrollment requirements if applicable.
Additionally, the template elaborates on the rights and entitlements of employees in relation to their pensions, emphasizing the terms and conditions that should be clearly outlined in employment contracts. It covers topics such as the commencement of pension contributions, employer contributions, employee contributions, vesting periods, retirement age, indexation, death in service benefits, and more.
Moreover, the template provides guidance on potential amendments or modifications to pension clauses, ensuring employers consider the legal implications and obtain appropriate consent from employees. It may also offer sample clauses that can be customized to suit specific employment arrangements.
By utilizing this template, employers can ensure that their employment contracts include comprehensive and legally compliant pension clauses that protect the rights and interests of both themselves and their employees under UK law.
Publisher
Genie AIJurisdiction
England and WalesPayment In Lieu Of Notice To Terminate With Immediate Effect (Clause For Employment Contact)
In certain circumstances, employers may need to terminate an employment contract with immediate effect, bypassing the notice period that is typically required. These circumstances may include gross misconduct, serious breach of contract, or other significant reasons justifying an immediate termination.
This legal template serves as a pre-drafted clause to be included in an employment contract. It aims to provide a clear understanding and agreement between the employer and employee regarding the payment the employee is entitled to receive instead of serving the notice period.
The template specifically addresses the financial aspect of the immediate termination, offering guidance on the amount and method of payment in lieu of notice. It may outline whether the payment will include a full or partial salary, any accrued but untaken holidays, bonuses, benefits, or pensions that the employee would have received during the notice period.
While this template is designed to comply with UK employment laws, it is essential for both employers and employees to seek legal advice and ensure the clause aligns with the specific circumstances and requirements of their situation.
Publisher
Genie AIJurisdiction
England and WalesLetter Of Dismissal With Immediate Effect (Payment In Lieu Of Notice)
Under UK law, employers are typically obligated to provide a certain notice period (as specified in the employment contract or statutory law) before dismissing an employee. However, in certain cases where the employer deems it necessary, they may exercise their right to dismiss an employee without any prior notice, providing the dismissed employee with a payment equal to the salary or benefits they would have earned during the notice period, commonly referred to as "payment in lieu of notice" (PILON).
The template generally includes several key elements. Firstly, it mentions that the recipient is being dismissed abruptly, effective immediately, and provides a clear reason for the dismissal. It outlines the legal basis for this action, referring to relevant sections of UK employment law. Additionally, the letter specifies the amount being offered as PILON, which is typically calculated based on the employee's regular salary and contractual benefits that would have accumulated during the applicable notice period. It also explains any deductions that may be made from this payment, such as tax or outstanding debts owed by the employee to the employer.
The document might outline other relevant information, such as the final payment date, instructions for returning company property or settling any outstanding matters, and the eligibility to receive certain statutory payments such as redundancy pay or accrued holiday entitlements. In some cases, the letter may provide details on any non-compete or confidentiality clauses that will continue to be binding on the employee even after their dismissal.
It is important to note that this legal template is not a one-size-fits-all document, as each case of dismissal with immediate effect may have different circumstances and legal requirements. Therefore, it is advisable to seek appropriate legal counsel or adapt the template to suit the specific circumstances of the dismissal and to comply with UK employment laws and regulations.