David Strong

I really enjoy working with startups because they are filled with thoughtful people trying to do novel, creative, and disruptive things, especially within the fields of life sciences and technology. Entrepreneurs have a lot of energy and appreciate the advice we are able to provide, which often translates into significant savings for the company, its investors, or its founders. The combination of the founders' vision, energy and passion and the opportunity to help a business grow and expand over time is very fulfilling.

Experience: As a tax advisor, I help startups with a wide-range of tax issues that relate to formation, operation, and exit. This includes choice of entity, raising new rounds of equity capital, acquisitions, debt financing, and maximizing tax benefits during liquidity events. In short, my practice covers the entire lifecycle of a business—from the seed or venture stage to mature private or public company. I am also nationally-recognized for counseling clients with respect to planning under Section 1202 of the Internal Revenue Code / “qualified small business stock” (QSBS).

Launch Moment: About 15 years ago, I worked with a niche telecommunications company that started from an initial seed round and ultimately grew into a multi-billion-dollar company. Being involved from the ground stage and helping them with a variety of tax-planning issues (including in relation to Section 1202 QSBS) was very exciting. Following that experience, I have had a variety of similar client relationships and it keeps me energized and motivated to work with startup clients.

Off the Clock: I value balance in life and when I am not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I am based in Colorado (in the firm’s Denver office) and I love outdoor activities like hiking, biking, skiing, and playing hockey. Staying active helps me maintain stability and keeps me focused and healthy.

Favorite Apps: Some of my favorites right now are ALLTrails for hiking, Ride With GPS for biking, and Spotify for music.

Go-To Reads: Every morning, I read the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Economist, and CNN to stay informed. For tax news, I read Bloomberg Tax and Tax Notes Today. Outside of work, my favorite book to revisit is The Great Gatsby because it resonates with me on many levels, particularly its timeless lessons regarding love and relationships and the pursuit of the American Dream.