IPO Preparation Tips for Growing Companies

Taking your company public is a major milestone—and a massive undertaking. From financial transparency to investor readiness, preparing for an initial public offering (IPO) requires strategy, structure, and speed. This lead magnet offers expert-backed tips to help your team navigate the process and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Understand the IPO Readiness Checklist
Before filing with the SEC, your business must pass internal tests. These include:

• Clean and audited financials (3+ years preferred)
• GAAP-compliant accounting practices
• Clearly defined cap table and equity agreements
• Up-to-date corporate governance policies

2. Build a Strong Finance Team

Your finance team will be responsible for managing the demands of regulators, investors, and analysts. That includes:

• Forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis
• Managing audits and investor reports
• Coordinating with legal and underwriting teams

3. Implement Scalable Systems

Manual accounting systems won’t cut it during or after the IPO. Upgrade to:

• Cloud-based ERP and financial reporting tools
• Equity and cap table management platforms (e.g., Carta)
• Data room software for due diligence

4. Bring in Outside Experts

You’ll need advisors who’ve been through it before—especially in:

• IPO planning and capital markets strategy
• Legal and compliance advisory
• Investor relations and communications

5. Plan for Post-IPO Operations

Going public is just the beginning. Prepare for:

• Quarterly earnings reports and analyst calls
• Ongoing SEC filings (10-Q, 10-K, 8-K)
• Public investor relations and brand scrutiny

6. Understand the IPO Readiness Checklist
Before filing with the SEC, your business must pass internal tests. These include:

• Clean and audited financials (3+ years preferred)
• GAAP-compliant accounting practices
• Clearly defined cap table and equity agreements
• Up-to-date corporate governance policies