The 2016 “Silicon Valley Abroad” symposium centered on the globalization of Silicon Valley entrepreneurship and investment. This symposium examined the opportunities and legal challenges for investors and startups expanding internationally (and for foreign startups entering Silicon Valley).

It was structured into a morning panel and a keynote conversation:

• Panel: “Global Innovation: A Legal Perspective.” Featuring Victoria Dockrell (international counsel at 500 Startups) and Professor Abraham Cable (UC Hastings), this discussion covered how legal frameworks differ across jurisdictions for venture investing, and what Silicon Valley companies must consider when expanding overseas (e.g. foreign investment regulations, IP protection abroad).
• Keynote: A fireside chat with Dave McClure and Christine Tsai, co-founders of the prominent tech incubator 500 Startups. McClure and Tsai shared firsthand insights on investing in startups globally, highlighting case studies of Silicon Valley-backed companies in emerging markets and discussing the cultural and legal hurdles they faced. Their dialogue, moderated Q&A style, offered practical advice for entrepreneurs and lawyers navigating cross-border venture deals. To see photos from this event, please click here.

This symposium presaged Berkeley Law’s increased focus on international business law. A number of attendees were LL.M. students interested in Silicon Valley law, and the event fostered connections later reflected in BBLJ’s blog coverage of global startup financing.

Details

Date: Friday, March 4, 2016

Time & Venue:

Global Innovation:  A Legal Perspective @ 10:30am – 12:00pm, Warren Room

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Keynote: Dave McClure and Christine Tsai @ 12:45 – 1:45pm, Boalt Hall Room 100

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JD+LLM Speed Mixer (Students Only) – CANCELLED @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm, Warren Room