6 Tips for Writing a Term Sheet List the terms. Summarize the terms. Explain the dividends. Include liquidation preference. Include voting agreement and closing items. Read, edit and prepare for signatures.
What is it? A term sheet is a summary document containing the key terms of a contract. It provides an overview of the most important commercial and other terms of a transaction or relationship. It can be called Key Terms or Heads of Terms, or sometimes a Letter of Intent.
Viewed thus, the negotiation of a term sheet is a matter of adjustment of contractual rights and obligations on the various sides of a proposed investment transaction. The key players are obviously the investors, on the one hand, and the founder or the promoters, on the other.
Legal counsel is essential when creating or reviewing a term sheet to ensure that the terms are clear, fair, and protect your interests. An experienced attorney can help identify potential issues and provide valuable negotiation advice.
A term sheet may be prepared by either party – the investor or the founder. Usually, if a venture capital firm is investing, the VC offers a term sheet.
6 Tips for Writing a Term Sheet List the terms. Summarize the terms. Explain the dividends. Include liquidation preference. Include voting agreement and closing items. Read, edit and prepare for signatures.
The LOI is also typically used in larger, complex transactions by sophisticated parties. Similar to the Term Sheet, the LOI will specify the terms of the transaction, but in greater detail. Unlike the Term Sheet, portions of the LOI, such as Confidentiality and Exclusivity, may be legally binding.
Once you're certain the investors offering you a term sheet are a good match, go beyond the obvious. Investment dollars and valuation are critical, of course, but don't overlook important details like option pools, liquidation preferences and the composition of your board.
CohnReznick's Beth Mullen looks at several important points in a deal term sheet. Credit delivery amount and timing. Guarantees. Reserves. Year 15 exit options. Implied costs for third-party reports.