CMS Carey & Allende's venture capital practice has significant experience in start-up and investor-related matters. The four-member group’s expertise covers emerging companies’ entire life cycles, from formation and early-stage financing to high-stakes M&A deals; and its track record ranges from establishing large-value venture capital funds and facilitating equity financing rounds for international corporate venture capital firms, to structuring innovative financing solutions. It has particular sector expertise in fintech, biotech, e-commerce, and clima-tech-related start-ups. The practice is led by Ernesto Eckholt, an October 2024 hire from NexLegal, who has notable expertise in the Chilean start-up ecosystem, as well as enviable Silicon Valley connections. Providing key support, co-head of the firm’s corporate and M&A team, Jorge Allende Destuet, advises on fund formation, venture finance, M&A and corporate governance.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Very attentive to clients’ requirements and capable of seeing clients’ business as a whole.’
- ‘Ernesto Eckholt has in-depth knowledge of local law and extensive experience in the Chilean and international markets, allowing him to recommend the most efficient and appropriate solutions to clients’ needs.‘
- ‘Ernesto Eckholt has a very practical, problem-solving attitude.’
Key clients
- Desert Point (Gauss Control)
- Watermind
- Selva Viva Drinks
- Diproinduca (Barbados)
- Kunzapp
- Palo Negro Biotech
- Broota
Work highlights
Advised Desert Point on restructuring its capital, following a higher share placement value.
Advised Palo Negro Biotech on its seed funding round (structured through SAFE).
Advised Diproinduca (Barbados) on structuring and executing a financing arrangement for Zustatek, an innovative sustainability-focused start-up.
Practice head
Ernesto Eckholt