The Merton Monthly: March
Last month, Merton Lawyers had the opportunity to attend various events, including SXSW Going Global Presentation, North Carolina's Economic Development Briefing, and Melbourne's Innovation Bay Community Drinks.
Merton Lawyers X Investment NSW X SXSW – Going Global Presentation Arena Mars x 1835i
🚀 Merton Lawyers was proud to host an exclusive pre-event session on raising capital in the US, in collaboration with Investment NSW. Moderated by our Managing Partner & Head of Corporate, Anthony Curtin, the session featured expert insights from Amar Rathor (Venture Partner, 1835i Ventures) and Michael Priddis (Partner, Arena Mars), who shared invaluable perspectives on successfully navigating the US investment landscape.
💡 Key Takeaways:
✅ US investors prioritize market traction, particularly with US customers.
✅ Visibility is critical—ensure your company is listed on PitchBook & CrunchBase to attract investor attention.
✅ Raising capital in the US requires strategic positioning and strong metrics to demonstrate scalability.
✅ Australian & US VCs operate differently—US investors move faster, expect scale, and focus heavily on growth potential.
✅ Face-to-face meetings are essential to building trust and credibility with US investors.
✅ Engage Australian & US tax and legal advisors early—incorrect tax structures and contractual issues from early investors can create significant risks down the line.
The key lesson? Preparation is everything. Success in the US market requires more than just capital—it demands a solid strategy, the right legal and tax structures, and strong investor relationships.
🔥 If you're a startup founder planning US expansion or gearing up for your next raise, now is the time to take action.
A big thank you to Investment NSW and all attendees for being part of this session. Merton Lawyers is committed to supporting Australian companies as they take their businesses global. Let’s continue building success stories together!
North Carolina Economic Development Breakfast Briefing
Merton Lawyers joined the U.S. Department of Commerce and AmCham Australia for an exclusive briefing from Nathaniel Dick, from the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina
on US States world renowned Research Triangle and the opportunities of collaboration in its precinct. For any further information please contact us.
Innovation Bay - Community Drinks
In Febraury - Merton Lawyers attended Innovation Bays community drinks with a number of Melbournes founder and venture capital community. Merton Lawyers are proud to continue partnering with Innovation Bay.
Merton Lawyers to launch Project Odyssey
In early April 2025, Merton Lawyers will launch Project Odyssey, building on the success of Project Frontier. The initiative is the result of over 100 in-depth interviews with venture capital investors across Australia and the US, aimed at identifying key pain points in the investment landscape. Project Odyssey is designed to develop practical solutions that address these challenges, reinforcing Merton Lawyers’ commitment to supporting the innovation ecosystem and enhancing cross-border investment opportunities.
Corporate Partner - Emerging Growth Companies & Venture Capital (Melbourne and Gold Coast, Australia)
We are seeking a dynamic Partner to lead and grow our Emerging Growth Companies & Venture Capital Practice. This is an exceptional opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Australian startup ecosystem. As a Partner, you will leverage your expertise, networks, and leadership to further develop your career and elevate the firm's position as a market leader in the space.
Can AI Predict the Next Big IPO? Crunchbase Thinks So.
The data company is using AI to forecast startup funding, acquisitions and public offerings—but its biggest challenge may be predicting its own future
Silicon Valley Bank - Global Private Market Trends
Rewatchables - 'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York'
The Ringer’s Bill Simmons and Kyle Brandt rack up the room service bill at The Plaza Hotel as they rewatch the 1992 comedy ‘Home Alone 2: Lost In New York,’ starring Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, and Daniel Stern.
Upcoming*
Sunrise - Blackbird
Sunrise Blackbird is just around the corner, bringing together top founders, investors, and industry leaders to shape the future of innovation. Join us for high-impact discussions, networking, and insights that drive real change. Don't miss your chance to be part of the conversation. See you there! 🌅🐦
US Trip April - May 2025
Our Managing Partner Anthony Curtin will be in New York, Palo Alto, and San Francisco from 28th April to 9th May. Book a time by emailing anthony.curtin@mertonlawyers.com.au, if you are a founder or investor expanding to the US or are interested in learning more about the Australian ecosystem.
US Trade and Investment Briefing
An exclusive presentation by the US Consulate and EY on US trade & investment opportunities, focusing on global trade, incentives, the AUKUS Treaty, and other US tax matters.
