Ask the Expert: Valuations, Grants & QSBS

​Valuation tools and tradeoffs for maximizing the wealth created by your startup

​In this 60‑minute online session, Isaac Salem, VP at Teknos Associates, will share how to think strategically about valuations and the tradeoffs that can have real financial consequences down the road.

​Isaac will kick off with a brief overview, then dive into a live “Ask the Expert” conversation, where your questions will guide the discussion.

Expect a candid, tactical session exploring:

• ​The implications of common startup valuations — from 409A valuations for stock‑based compensation to fair market value of contributed assets, and how they affect future financial returns

• ​Grant, exercise, and transfer earlier rather than later — why earlier option grants can mean lower exercise prices, what to know about 83(b) elections, and how to weigh optionality against tax savings

• ​Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) — how it can significantly reduce (or even eliminate) capital gains taxes, plus what qualifies in terms of business type, company size, and holding period

​Bring your questions and get direct, practical guidance from someone who’s helped founders at every stage.

​​About Teknos

​​Teknos Associates is a Valuation Advisory & Consulting firm focused on early-stage, venture backed, emerging technology companies covering valuation for Tax, Financial Reporting, Transactions, and Litigation. Our expert team stands out for our responsiveness, flexibility, and in-depth industry expertise.

​​About Pando

​​Pando offers a one-stop shop for founders to get the peer community and support they need to be successful. We match you with a cohort of 8–10 impressive founders interested in building enduring relationships with brilliant and ambitious peers.

​​We have a network of 300+ extraordinary founders and business leaders, who have raised from 750+ unique investors. Our founders have raised $3.6B and run companies valued at ~$8B.