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Protective provisions

Clauses that require investor approval — or a class vote — before the company does certain big things: selling the company, issuing new stock, changing the charter, or taking on large debt.

Related: Preferred stock · Term sheet · Board of directors

A bit more nuance
  • Often called veto rights in conversation; the real text lives in corporate documents.
  • They protect investors; founders should know which decisions cannot move at startup speed anymore.
Go deeper
Discussion questions
  • Which protective items are standard in your market vs overreach?
  • What decision would you never want blocked by a single small holder?

Educational reference only — not legal, tax, or investment advice. Terms vary by country and deal; ask a qualified professional when it matters.