Investor funding can empower startups with essential resources and strategic guidance, but navigating this complex landscape with so many equity options can present itself with challenges. Thankfully, there are resources to help entrepreneurs make sense of it all. The Center is thrilled to be joined by the U.S. Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) to explore the tools they have created to help early-stage entrepreneurs prepare to raise capital. These resources will help you better understand the fundamentals of raising capital as well as the various regulatory pathways that are available to raise capital from investors. You’ll walk away with insights into where capital is being raised and used, as well as a clear understanding of how your business needs to be registered with the SEC in order to offer or sell securities.

Key Takeaways:

• What pathways are available to raise capital from investors
• Capital raising challenges
• Educational resources to inform each stage of the capital raising journey

For more information, please visit the SEC’s Capital Raising Hub.

OUR SPECIAL GUEST

Julie Zelman Davis

Senior Special Counsel, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation

Julie joined the Office in February 2019 as one of the first team members, overseeing strategic projects and serving as Senior Special Counsel. Prior to joining the Office, Julie served as Senior Special Counsel to the Director of the Division of Corporation Finance, an attorney in the Division’s Office of Small Business Policy, and before that as Deputy Director of the Office of Legislative Affairs at the SEC. Prior to her public service, Julie worked on capital raising transactions at the law firm Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP in Boston, MA.

Jennifer L. Williams

Founder and CEO, DIVERSD

Change agent. Empath. Rule Bender.

Meet Jennifer L. Williams, PHR., a versatile leader committed to promoting innovation and inclusivity within the workforce. With a deep understanding of the importance of belonging and authenticity, Jennifer bravely drives progress toward a more equitable workplace, for everyone. With a passion for transformation and disruption at the core of everything she does, Jennifer is not content to simply accept the status quo.

As founder and CEO of DIVERSD, a tech company that uses AI and Big Data to help enterprises reach their Employee Inclusivity goals, She uses her collegiate, professional and lived experiences to bring you the very best in how technology will enhance the Future of Work.

A native Washingtonian, Jennifer received her BS in Communications from Howard University. Jennifer has over 20+ years of Executive HR & DEI experience in multiple industries, inclusive of Tech, The Senate, Fashion, and Nonprofits. She currently resides in Brooklyn, NY.

The Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center is a 501c(3) public charity whose mission it is to make entrepreneurship accessible to all. We deliver world-class resources and mentoring to enable every entrepreneur across the globe to realize their maximum potential. Please join us and make your gift to ensure these transformative programs may continue to reach the underserved.

All Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least 48 hours in advance of this event; please send an email to [email protected] with the subject header ACCOMMODATION REQUEST. For assistance with registration or other technical difficulties, please contact [email protected]