Startups
From incorporation to investor-ready records
Founders need a structure that fits their plans, compliance that does not slow them down, and numbers that hold up in due diligence. The right structure differs from founder to founder.
Stage by stage
What we do at each stage
Formation
A comparison of entity options for your plans, incorporation, and a checklist of first-year compliance.
First operating year
Accounting set-up, a compliance calendar and a simple monthly report for founders.
Fundraising readiness
Cap table review, clean financial records and a list of documents investors usually ask for in due diligence. DPIIT recognition and tax-incentive eligibility are assessed separately.
After funding
Investor reports, board packs, ESOP administration, FEMA reporting on foreign investment and the compliance support agreed with you.
What investors look for
Records that hold up in due diligence
Clean cap table
Every allotment and transfer recorded, with filings and stamp duty in order.
Reconciled books
Monthly closing, with bank, GST and TDS reconciled to the returns.
Compliance history
ROC, GST, TDS and FEMA filings on time, with acknowledgements kept.
Agreements in one place
Shareholder, founder, employee and key customer agreements, indexed for the data room.
Frequently asked questions
Should I start as an LLP or a private limited company?
If you plan to raise equity from investors or issue ESOPs, a private limited company is usually the practical choice. An LLP can suit a services business owned by its partners. We compare both for your plans before you register.
What does DPIIT recognition give a startup?
Recognition opens access to certain government schemes and self-certification under some labour and environmental laws. Income tax benefits need a separate application and have their own conditions, which we assess separately.
When should we set up an ESOP plan?
Before you promise options to employees in offer letters. The plan needs shareholder approval, and the tax on exercise and sale should be explained to employees in advance.
Starting up or preparing for a round?
We will review where you stand and what investors are likely to ask for.