Venture Financing: Raising your Series A

Raising a Series A is one of the most consequential moments in a startup's life — and the term sheet sitting at the center of that process is one of the most misunderstood documents in venture.

What do the terms actually mean? What's negotiable, what isn't, and what signals is an investor sending when they push on a particular clause? How do you walk into that conversation prepared — and walk out with a deal that works for your company long-term?

This seminar brings together top startup attorney Zachary Myers of Wilson Sonsini and investors Nick Mourlas and Garrett Smith of ReefHaven Ventures to break it all down — the legal mechanics, the investor mindset, and the practical realities of getting a Series A done. It's a rare opportunity to hear from both sides of the table in the same room, at the same time.

Featured Speakers

Zachary Myers, JD — Partner, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati

Zachary is one of Southern California's top corporate attorneys for technology and life sciences companies, with over 15 years of experience advising venture-backed startups through seed rounds, Series A financings, IPOs, and M&A. He has presented on venture finance topics at more than 100 conferences and universities and serves as a board member of EvoNexus.

Nick Mourlas, PhD — Investment Partner, ReefHaven Ventures

Nick brings a rare combination of operator and investor experience to the room. A Stanford PhD and Biodesign Fellow, he has founded and led medical device companies through acquisition (including exits to Medtronic and Integra), served as Sr. Director of New Ventures at Johnson & Johnson, and now invests through ReefHaven Ventures with a focus on healthcare innovation.

Garrett Smith, PhD — Managing Partner, ReefHaven Ventures

Garrett brings deep experience across company creation, venture investing, and healthcare innovation. A UCSD Bioengineering PhD and Stanford Biodesign Fellow, he co-founded Oculeve (acquired by Allergan) and Oyster Point Pharma (acquired by Viatris), achieving over $650M in combined exit value. He now invests through ReefHaven Ventures with a focus on medtech, AI, and robotics startups.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

9191 Towne Centre Dr, 9191 Towne Centre Drive, San Diego, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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