Flip-Up: Transform Your Startup into a U.S. Entity
Unmatched transactional experience, comprehensive legal management.
Turning your international startup into a U.S.-based company is not only just a legal maneuver but also it's a strategic upgrade. Our flip-up services help global startups become Delaware C-Corps, unlocking investor confidence, legal advantages, and growth opportunities.
Why Flip-Up to the U.S.?
Gain the credibility of a Delaware parent company
Meet investor expectations (especially U.S. VCs)
Offer competitive U.S. stock options
Unlock U.S. banking and fundraising frameworks
Benefit from Delaware's stable legal environment
End-to-End Legal Support for Your Flip-Up
Comprehensive legal services to guide your startup through every stage of the flip-up process
Pre-flip planning and strategy
Strategic assessment and roadmap development for your flip-up journey
U.S. entity formation and Delaware registration
Complete Delaware C-Corp formation with all necessary documentation
Tax structuring and shareholder alignment
Optimize tax implications and ensure smooth shareholder transitions
IP migration and employment agreements
Secure intellectual property transfer and update employment contracts
Post-flip compliance and integration
Ongoing support for U.S. compliance and operational integration
Your Flip-Up Journey in 5 Steps
A proven process to transform your international startup into a U.S. entity
Discovery & Structuring Plan
We analyze your current structure and design the optimal flip-up strategy for your goals
Delaware Entity Formation
Establish your U.S. parent company with proper governance and documentation
Legal & Tax Realignment
Navigate tax implications and restructure legal agreements for U.S. compliance
Stakeholder & IP Transfer
Seamlessly transfer equity, intellectual property, and update stakeholder agreements
Post-Flip Integration & Ongoing Legal Support
Ensure smooth operations with continuous compliance and legal guidance
Turning your international startup into a U.S. entity isn't just a legal maneuver--it's a game-changer. At Igniters we specialize in the art of the "flip-up," where we transform startups from anywhere in the world into U.S.-based companies, making you more attractive to investors and unlocking a world of growth opportunities."
Why flip up? Imagine having the credibility of a Delaware parent company—yes, the state renowned for its startup-friendly laws and investor confidence. This move isn’t just about ticking legal boxes; it’s about positioning your startup in a prime spot to secure U.S. investment and offer competitive stock options. Delaware's predictable legal framework is your startup’s secret weapon in the race for substantial funding. Our flip-up service isn’t just a one-and-done deal. We guide you through every twist and turn of the process, from planning to the legal and tax structuring. Our mission? To ensure your transition is not only compliant with U.S. laws but also optimized for tax efficiency, benefiting both your company and your shareholders. And we don’t stop there. Post-flip-up, we stick with you, helping your new U.S. entity mesh smoothly with your existing operations. From intellectual property rights to employee stock plans under U.S. regulations, we've got your back.
What sets us apart? It’s simple: experience. With hundreds of successful flip-ups under our belt, we’ve seen it all and done it all. No matter the size of your startup or the uniqueness of your needs, our team brings unmatched expertise to the table. Ready to flip the script on your startup’s future? Let’s get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
A flip-up is a corporate restructuring where an international startup creates a U.S. parent company (typically a Delaware C-Corp) that owns the original entity as a subsidiary. This structure makes it easier to raise funding from U.S. investors and access the U.S. market while maintaining operations in the home country.
While not legally required, most U.S. VCs strongly prefer or require investing in Delaware corporations due to familiar legal frameworks, standardized documents, and investor protections. A flip-up significantly increases your chances of securing U.S. venture capital.
Existing investors will exchange their shares in the original company for equivalent shares in the new U.S. parent company. We ensure that ownership percentages, rights, and preferences are preserved during the flip-up process, requiring consent from all shareholders.
Yes, intellectual property is typically transferred to the U.S. parent company to maximize company value and meet investor expectations. We handle IP assignments, ensuring proper documentation and compliance with both U.S. and local regulations.
The typical flip-up process takes 4-8 weeks, depending on complexity, number of shareholders, and jurisdictions involved. We provide a detailed timeline during the initial consultation and work efficiently to minimize disruption to your business operations.
Have more questions? We're here to help.
Contact our team for personalized guidanceRelated Services
Explore our comprehensive legal services designed to support your startup's growth journey.
Global Incorporation
Form your Delaware C-Corp from scratch with complete legal support.
SAFEs & Convertible Notes
Raise pre-seed funding before or after your flip-up.
Equity Financing
Prepare for Series A and beyond with proper U.S. structure.
Tax Advisory
Navigate complex tax implications of cross-border restructuring.
Flip Up with Confidence
Contact us to learn how our comprehensive legal management services can support your business growth and success.