Common Paper: The YC Startup Simplifying B2B Contracts with Open-Source Solutions | Episode 12

Overwhelmed by the back-and-forth negotiations and complexities of managing contracts when closing deals? 

In this episode of Lobster Talks, host Gabriel Jarrosson dives deep into the world of startup contracts with Jake Stein, co-founder and CEO of Common Paper. Jake, a seasoned entrepreneur with two successful exits under his belt, candidly shares the challenges he faced with contract management in his previous ventures, which ultimately led him to create Common Paper. Jake unveils his company's unique approach: standardized contracts, available for free through an open-source model, coupled with powerful software that automates the entire process, from negotiation to payment. Gabriel, an investor himself, and Jake discuss the importance of building optionality into your business, both in terms of fundraising and selling. The conversation highlights the value of cultivating relationships with potential acquirers and understanding investor priorities. Jake also shares his perspective on the benefits of Y Combinator, particularly for fundraising and accessing a network of experienced entrepreneurs. 

Get an insider's look at the benefits of Y Combinator and learn how Jake's journey can help you navigate your own startup path. Whether you're battling contract chaos or seeking wisdom from a successful founder, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Tune in now to transform your approach to startup legalities and gain a competitive edge.

EPISODE IN A GLANCE

-Meet Jake Stein and Discover the Story Behind Common Paper – Simplifying Startup Contracts

-How Common Paper is Revolutionizing Startup Legal Agreements with Standardization & Automation

-The Power of APIs in Modern Contract Management – A Revolution in Legal Tech

-Niche Focus – Why Common Paper Specializes in B2B Software Agreements

-Early Lessons from a Startup Founder – Why Immediate Value is Key to Success

-The Unique Value of Common Paper – Open Source, Automated Contracts & Powerful Integrations

-Building a Sustainable Open Source Business – The Common Paper Revenue Model

-Beyond Fundraising – How Y Combinator Accelerates Startup Growth

-Exit Strategies for Startups – Leveraging Relationships & Creating Optionality When Selling Your Business

-Charlie Munger's Wisdom for Entrepreneurs – The Power of Deserving What You Want

-The Future of Common Paper: AI and Contract Optimization

ABOUT JAKE STEIN

Jake Stein is co-founder and CEO of Common Paper. Previously, he was co-founder of RJMetrics (acquired by Magento, then Adobe) and Stitch (acquired by Talend). Before RJMetrics, Jake worked in venture capital, started a landscaping business in high school, and was the 44th-ranked table tennis player under 21 in New Jersey; achievements of which he is equally proud.

CONNECT WITH JAKE STEIN

Website → https://commonpaper.com/

LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakestein/

LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/common-paper/

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/jakestein

X/Twitter → https://x.com/jakestein

X/Twitter → https://x.com/UseCommonPaper

ABOUT GABRIEL JARROSSON

Gabriel Jarrosson is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the startup space and the General Partner of Lobster Capital. He has invested over $25M in Y Combinator startups. Having sold three of his own startups, he shares his expertise in his books "My Investor Secrets" and "Investing in Startups: x100 or Nothing."

CONNECT WITH GABRIEL JARROSSON

YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercapital

Website → https://www.lobstercap.com/

LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljarrosson/

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lobstercapital/

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