MintzTech Connect: All Things Technology — March 2017

By Dan DeWolf and Samuel Effron

Letter from the Editors

Dear Readers,

Happy spring! This issue includes two articles that challenge conventional thinking. The first, called “Software is Still Patent Eligible,” makes the case that software patents can still be obtained. IP generally accretes in value over time and is critically important to the value proposition of many enterprises. While some commentators believe that software patents are no longer worth trying to obtain, we disagree. The second article is about a novel way to construct a more balanced approach to the share ownership of founders and investors. People often forget that the NVCA (National Venture Capital Association) forms are created by counsel to the venture capital industry and as such are generally biased in favor of the investor. Our article proposes a novel solution to mitigate this bias and the solution is both simple and equitable.

Additionally, we highlight an exciting young company called BetterPT. BetterPT is revolutionizing the physical therapy industry with an easy to use app that connects patients, doctors, and physical therapists in a seamless fashion. It will modernize the physical therapy sector and enable patients to obtain faster and better care and includes an in-home concierge service.

Sincerely yours,

Dan + Sam

CONTENTS

Software Is Still Patent Eligible

A Balanced Approach to Founder's Equity

Innovator Profile: BetterPT

Sam Effron

Here’s the beauty of working with start-ups: I get to collaborate with people who see things from fresh perspectives. Add technical genius and entrepreneurial drive to a creative mindset, and you get an innovator who may have what it takes to launch a big idea in the world, where it could topple the status quo. We provide guidance, insight, and tools to help make that happen. We can help you identify opportunities for growth and then help you make the most of them. That’s gratifying work. And it leads to rewarding professional relationships. At every step, we flag legal considerations that could make a big difference. At the company formation stage, you could grant yourself legal rights that will help you hold onto your company as you attract investors. If not today, then soon, you’ll need to identify key sources of funding. I can work with you to raise new capital through private placements, an initial public offering, a strategic sale. I’ve handled these and other corporate transactions for tech-based companies in a variety of industries: software and high tech, fintech and financial services, clean and green tech, biotech, video gaming, virtual reality and artificial intelligence, consumer electronics, media, e-commerce, and others. Surprise me – and disrupt the market – with your big idea. I’m here to help.

https://orb-flatworm-3nw8.squarespace.com/meet-the-team/samuel-effron
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