Emerging technology companies and other high-growth businesses rely on Ryan Azlein as a long-term, entrepreneurial advisor to guide them through every stage of their lifecycle – from startup through exit. Whether his clients seek equity financing,  need comprehensive advice regarding their licensing and distribution arrangements or are involved in a critical merger or acquisition transaction, Ryan’s solutions are rooted in his commitment to positioning them to achieve their current priorities and future ambitions. His extensive experience with software, digital media, gaming, financial technology and e-commerce business, as well as other technology and consumer goods also make him a sought-after advisor to venture capital funds, private equity firms and other investors seeking to invest in those companies.

Ryan’s many long-term client relationships are founded on a deep understanding of their business. Over the past two decades, he’s represented emerging companies and investors in hundreds of deals, building vast and varied experience that informs his ability to help companies secure funding and make critical business decisions that impact their future growth. With high visibility in the L.A. tech and venture community, he is positioned to connect investors with emerging companies and bring teams together to find creative solutions that address all parties’ concerns when roadblocks arise.

A long-time supporter of the Southern California entrepreneurial community, Ryan is a frequent speaker, event host and author. His thought leadership and active participation have educated entrepreneurs, peer groups and students about venture capital financing and challenges faced by emerging growth companies to secure funding and grow their business.

Ryan represented long-time client The Bouqs Co. – an e-commerce floral business that connects consumers with farmers – in its $24 million Series C financing.

Ryan and his team advised the growth private equity group of Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors LP, an alternative investment firm managing over $25 billion in assets, in its $30 million Investment in rfXcel, a San Ramon provider of software-as-a-service solutions.

Ryan and his team assisted ArtCraft Entertainment, an independent video game developer, in securing an $11.7 million Series A Preferred Stock financing to allow the company to complete development of its flagship MMORPG game. 

When client Avinew, an innovative auto insurance tech company needed seed financing, Ryan structured a $5 million financing deal through preferred stock and convertible notes with several investors including CrossCut Ventures, Draper Frontier Venture Capital, APEX Ventures, Gideon Hixon and Peate Ventures.

As part of his ongoing portfolio investment work for Act One Ventures – a community-based, early- stage venture capital fund – Ryan represented the fund’s investment in AuditBoard’s Series B financing.

Speaking Engagements

  • “Term Sheets and Seed Financing Structures”, Tech Coast Angeles Chapter Meeting (July 2018)
  •  “How to Impress Investors”, Innovation and Growth Fair, 805 Startups (June 2018)
  • "Legal and Regulatory Overview", Crypto Invest Summit (May 2018)
  • Panelist, 805 Startups Regional Investor, Startup & Job Fair (November 2017)
  • “Term Sheet Tips and Topics”, Tech Coast Angels chapter dinner meeting (January 2017)
  • “How to Think Like a VC”, Crowd Invest Summit (2016 and 2017)
  • “The VC’s Speak: Fundraising Tips for Startups”, 805 Startups Startup Fair (October 2016)

Credentials

Education
  • University of California, Berkeley, School of Law, J.D., 1999
  • University of San Diego, B.A., 1996
  • California