Structure, Funding and Negotiation For Startups

Macquarie University via Coursera

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Details

Go to class

Provider

Coursera
Pricing

Paid Course
Languages

English
Certificate

Certificate Available
Effort

16 hours 50 minutes
Sessions

Self-Paced
Level

Intermediate
Subtitles

English

Found in

Part of

Educate Skills for Startups

Overview

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Building a startup takes more than a great idea. You need to understand how to protect it, fund it, and negotiate for it. This course gives you the practical legal and financial knowledge every early-stage founder needs — without the jargon. Across eight modules, you'll explore the full landscape of startup structure and finance. You'll learn how to access non-dilutive funding through Australian government grants and the R&D Tax Incentive, and how to protect your ideas through patents, trademarks, and copyrights. The Corporate Governance module gives you the frameworks to build a resilient, accountable organisation from the ground up. From there, you'll move into funding strategy — mapping the investor marketplace from bootstrapping and crowdfunding through to angel investors and venture capital. You'll learn what investors look for during due diligence, how to determine and communicate your startup's valuation, and how to negotiate term sheets with clarity and confidence. Expert practitioners guide you through each topic, bringing real-world experience in law, finance, and investment. You'll engage with video lessons, comprehension quizzes, interactive dialogue exercises, and hands-on pre-work activities that connect every concept to your own venture. This course is designed for early-stage founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and business professionals looking to strengthen their knowledge of startup law, funding, and investment. A general interest in business is helpful; no formal legal or financial background is required. The course is based on Australian regulation yet remains relevant to founders globally.

Syllabus

Tax Incentives and Grants

This module provides an overview of key tax incentives and government grant programs available to Australian startups and scaleups. You will gain a clear understanding of how to access non-dilutive funding opportunities—such as the R&D Tax Incentive and innovation grants—without compromising equity. The session will guide you through eligibility criteria, application processes, and integration of these programs into your broader financial and growth strategy.

IP, Patents and Trademarks

In this module, you'll dive into the essentials of intellectual property—what it is, why it matters, and how to protect it. You'll gain a clear understanding of patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets, learning when and how to use each to safeguard your ideas and innovations. Through real-world examples and practical tools, you'll explore the process of registering IP, navigating legal frameworks, and avoiding common pitfalls. This module will empower you to make informed decisions, protect your creative and commercial assets, and build a business with strong, secure foundations.

Corporate Governance

In this module, you'll explore the core principles of corporate governance and why they matter for building responsible, resilient organisations. You'll learn how effective governance supports ethical decision-making, transparency, and accountability across all levels of a business. From board structures and director responsibilities to risk management and stakeholder engagement, you'll gain insights into the frameworks that guide sustainable leadership and long-term success. This module will equip you with the knowledge to navigate complex governance challenges, align business practices with regulatory expectations, and contribute to a culture of integrity and trust.

Investor Marketplace

In this module, you'll delve into the dynamic landscape of investment and funding options available to startups and growing businesses. You'll learn how to navigate the investor marketplace, from bootstrapping and crowdfunding to angel investors, venture capital, and government grants. By understanding the strategic implications of each funding path, you'll be equipped to align your financial decisions with your business goals, growth stage, and values. This module will help you evaluate investor fit, pitch effectively, and manage stakeholder expectations, empowering you to secure the right capital for long-term success and sustainable impact.

Due Diligence

This module demystifies the due diligence process for early-stage Australian founders. You’ll gain a clear understanding of what investors are really looking for when they dig into your startup—financials, legal structure, IP, traction, and team. The session unpacks how to prepare for investor scrutiny, avoid red flags, and build trust through transparency. With practical tools and founder-friendly advice, you’ll walk away ready to confidently navigate due diligence conversations and position your startup as investment-ready.

Startup Valuation

This module provides an overview of startup valuation fundamentals for early-stage Australian founders. You will gain a clear understanding of the most common valuation methods, how they apply at different growth stages, and what investors look for when assessing value. The session will guide you through practical approaches to determining and communicating your startup’s worth, helping you navigate fundraising conversations with confidence and clarity.

Investor Negotiation and Term Sheets

This module introduces the fundamentals of negotiating with investors and understanding the key components of term sheets. You’ll learn how to navigate the negotiation process with confidence, protect your interests, and build strong, long-term investor relationships. We’ll break down common terms and clauses—like valuation, equity, liquidation preferences, and dilution—so you can make informed decisions during fundraising. Through real-world examples and practical tips, you’ll gain the tools to engage in productive conversations and avoid common pitfalls. By the end of this module, you’ll be ready to approach investor negotiations with clarity, confidence, and a solid grasp of what’s at stake.

End of Course Wrap Up

This course has guided you through the essential pillars of building and growing a venture—pitching, sales, marketing, intellectual property, business structuring, and finance options. You’ve explored how to communicate your vision effectively, attract and retain customers, protect your ideas, choose the right legal framework, and secure funding. Each topic has provided strategies, tools, and frameworks to strengthen your entrepreneurial skillset. With these foundations in place, you’re now equipped to navigate opportunities and challenges with confidence. The journey doesn’t end here—your next step is to connect these lessons into a coherent strategy and put them into action for your own venture.