Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible?
Eligible McDermott Rise Italy members include:
- Entrepreneurs/startups operating in disadvantaged areas (e.g., those outlined in the Italian PNRR);
- Entrepreneurs/startups benefitting of contribution for the business development of disadvantaged areas (e.g., those outlined in the Italian PNRR);
- Female entrepreneurs;
- Companies with a significant representation of women in the core leadership team/workforce (i.e., at least 50%);
- Companies abiding to the best practices for women representation;
- Companies engaged in products/services for women;
- Companies whose mission is to fight any inequality between men and women;
- Entrepreneurs belonging to any kind of minority;
- Companies with a significant representation of minorities in the core leadership team/workforce (i.e., at least 50%);
- Companies abiding to the best practices for representation of minorities;
- Companies whose mission is to fight any minority discrimination.
In evaluating the applications and choosing the participants to the program we will give extra credits to young entrepreneurs, entrepreneurs working in the ESG sector/engaged in the ecological transition, and LGBTQQIA+ entrepreneurs.
Does it matter what stage of financing my company is at?
Entrepreneurs that are going to start their own business, companies at early-stage funding levels (Series A and prior) are invited to apply.
If I am selected, what do I get?
Selected members will receive 30 hours of free legal counsel.
What happens after the complimentary hours are used?
Once the complimentary hours are used, we will defer up to EUR 30,000 of hourly fees until the earlier of: (i) the next fundraising or milestone event, (ii) 12 months from the access to the program.
WHAT OTHER BENEFITS DO MEMBERS HAVE BEYOND THE SCOPE OF FREE LEGAL SERVICES?
All members have access to our legal resources, McDermott-sponsored events, networking opportunities, including our global network of venture capital firms, private equity funds, incubators and accelerators.
What type of legal services can I expect to receive after I’ve been selected?
McDermott has lawyers across multiple practice areas. Some common examples of legal issues applicable to McDermott Rise Italy members include documenting a fundraising or a loan, structuring corporate governance, applying for a patent, hiring employees, and selling or planning an exit.
How do I know which practice areas apply to my business?
Once admitted to the McDermott Rise Italy program, each member will have a kick-off orientation session with their advocate, a McDermott professional who will serve as their guide and mentor throughout the length of their membership. This kick-off session introduces the program, helps members prioritize their immediate legal needs and offers a time to answer any questions. The purpose of these sessions is to help participants plan and define the first actions to be taken and understand the most relevant legal issues related to them.
Practice areas include:
- Start-up Formation;
- Capitalization;
- Incentive Compensation;
- Extraordinary Transactions;
- Banking & Finance;
- Tax;
- Litigation;
- Commercial Contracts;
- Corporate General Advice;
- Day-by-day Assistance;
- Employment;
- Privacy & Cybersecurity;
- Anti-bribery;
- Intellectual Property;
- Other areas pertinent to business growth.
What information do I need to apply?
Applications should include:
- Your contact information;
- In which category your application falls (e.g., a company with a significant representation of women in the core leadership team/workforce)
- Whether you meet any of the extra criteria of selection (e.g., young entrepreneur);
- Your industry/business vertical;
- What stage of financing your company is at;
- 150 words or fewer describing your business and project;
- Your business website (if any).
Does McDermott Rise ITALY provide business funding?
McDermott Rise Italy does not provide funding but can help you navigate the legal landscape implicated when securing funding through any fundraising vehicle.
Who will be my main point of contact if I am selected?
Following acceptance into the program, members will receive a welcome email from their McDermott Rise Italy advocate. Your advocate will serve as your main point of contact.
How many McDermott Rise Italy members are selected, and how often?
We select 5 entrepreneurs/companies per year, added on a rolling basis.
Where can I apply?
Apply online here.
How can I submit questions or ask for additional information?
Contact us at mcdermottriseitaly@mwe.com.
