Pathfinding Consultants

When a startup approaches a liquidity event or sale, the excitement can quickly turn into confusion once taxes enter the picture. Many founders celebrate the deal size without realizing that poor tax planning can quietly erode 20-40% of their gains. In my 10+ years advising startup founders, I’ve seen how a few early tax moves, like exercising ISOs before valuation spikes or qualifying for the QSBS exclusion, can save millions in taxes. Proper planning doesn’t just protect yo