A typical venture capital investment is structured so that the venture capitalist gets convertible preferred stock in your company. This stock gives the venture capitalist a preference over the common shareholders in the event of a liquidation or merger.

The preferred stock is convertible into common stock at the option of the holder -- and may be automatically triggered by certain events. For example, the preferred stock would convert to common stock in the event of an initial public offering (IPO) of the company to simplify the capital structure of the company and to facilitate the IPO.

Venture capital investments are also sometimes "staged." A certain amount of money is invested right away and additional money is invested later, as certain milestones are reached. From the company's perspective, it's important that these milestones are clearly defined and reasonably obtainable.

Venture Capitalists' Rights
Venture capitalists also typically expect to receive the following rights with an investment:

• The right to elect one or more directors to the company's board of directors
• The right to receive various reports, financial statements and related information
• The right to have its stock registered for sale in a public offering at the company's cost
• The right to maintain its percentage share ownership in the company by participating in future stock offerings