The jump from zero employees to one is a huge one. There’s a ton to consider here, from the company culture you’re going to start developing to the specific responsibilities of that first hire. A lot of your work here depends on your company, your product/service, and...
Seed Stage Advice
Equity Compensation Mistakes Tech Startups Make Before a Funding Round
Why Equity Compensation Can Make or Break a Deal When you’re gearing up for a funding round, there’s a lot at stake. Investors are scrutinizing every line item, every agreement, every assumption. And one area that can make or break a deal is equity compensation. For...
From Zero to One — Paying Yourself and Making Your First Hire
Starting your company usually feels like stepping into the unknown. You’re about to face a wealth of unpredictability as you try to navigate toward success. In some ways, though, things will never be simpler. That’s because once you hire your first employee,...
LLC vs S-Corp vs C-Corp: Tax and Fundraising Tips for Startup Founders
At ShayCPA, we meet founders at every stage of their journey—from the first spark of an idea to scaling with venture capital and beyond. One of the very first questions we hear is: “What’s the best business entity for my tech company: an LLC, S-Corp, or C-Corp?” It’s...
An Overview of the Business Provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
July 4, 2025 wasn’t just the last Independence Day before the United States’s upcoming Semiquincentennial. It was also a historic day because it cemented one of the biggest pieces of legislation in recent history. The formerly named One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)...
How NYC Hotspot Empowers Innovation in Tech and Biotech Companies
New York City has established itself as a global leader in technology and biotech innovation, fostering an ecosystem that supports startups and established companies alike. A key initiative driving this growth is the NYC Innovation Hot Spot program—a state-backed...
How Startups Can (and Should) Leverage Economic Development Corporations Without Losing Their Edge
If you’re a tech founder in a city like New York, there’s a good chance you’ve come across a quasi-governmental entity known as an Economic Development Corporation (EDC). The New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) is one of the most prominent...
Understanding Investor Information Rights: A Guide for Founders
As a startup founder, bringing investors on board is an exciting milestone. However, it also comes with responsibilities, including providing certain information about your company's performance. One key area investors often negotiate during funding rounds is...
Understanding NYC’s 401(k) Rules for Startups: A Guide for Small Employers
For startups in New York City, offering a 401(k) or other retirement savings plan is not only a smart move for attracting and retaining talent—it may also be required by law. New York City (and New York State) have enacted regulations that mandate eligible...








