Innovator's Bootcamp: Legal, Funding & Founder Essentials for Startups
Schedule
Wed Apr 29 2026 at 08:00 am to 05:00 pm
UTC-06:00Location
EngineWorks | Bozeman, MT
About this Event
Join us for a full-day, in-person Innovator’s Bootcamp (8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.), followed by optional 1:1 legal sessions from 3:00–5:00 p.m., designed to help Montana startups navigate the legal, funding, and strategic decisions that shape early-stage growth.
Co-hosted by the Montana Bioscience Alliance, the Montana Photonics and Quantum Alliance, and the Montana Innovation Partnership, this workshop features experienced attorneys from Sheppard Mullin, a nationally recognized law firm advising emerging growth companies, investors, and research institutions across the country.
Whether you are forming your company, preparing for investment, protecting intellectual property, or negotiating agreements, this bootcamp provides practical, founder-focused guidance you can immediately apply.
What You’ll Learn
✔ Choosing the right business entity and governance structure
✔ Startup funding pathways and investment considerations
✔ Founder equity, compensation, and hiring best practices
✔ Intellectual property protection strategies
✔ Licensing, collaboration, and research agreements
Each session includes dedicated Q&A time to address real-world startup scenarios.
Featured Lunch Conversation
During lunch, hear from Claire Smith and Ryan Morley of Springtide, who will share insights from their founder journey, lessons learned while scaling a venture, and practical advice for navigating growth challenges in Montana and beyond.
Lunch is included with registration.
Who Should Attend
This event is ideal for:
• Entrepreneurs and Innovators
• Startup Founders and Co-Founders
• Executive and Leadership Teams
• Investors and Venture Capitalists
• Legal and Compliance Professionals
• Technology Transfer and Commercialization Professionals
Why Attend?
• Gain practical legal insights tailored to early-stage companies
• Avoid costly mistakes that can slow growth or deter investment
• Learn directly from experienced startup attorneys
• Connect with Montana’s innovation and startup ecosystem
Registration
$50 – General Registration (Non-Members)
$25 – Members of the Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance or Montana Bioscience Alliance
If cost is a barrier, please email us to inquire about financial assistance.
Space may be limited. Advance registration is required.
Where is it happening?
EngineWorks, 2425 Technology Boulevard, Bozeman, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 25.00 to USD 50.00











