Startup Share Schemes: EMI vs Unapproved - Which Works for You?

Are you ready to build a team that’s as invested in your startup’s success as you are?

Whether you’re hiring your first employee, rewarding a long-time advisor, or planning a future exit, understanding share option schemes is critical for scaling smart.

Join Michael Buckworth, founder of Buckworths, the only law firm in the UK working exclusively with startups and high-growth businesses for an essential deep-dive into EMI and Unapproved Share Schemes. Discover which one fits your business and how to use them to attract, motivate and retain top talent.

What’s in Store for You?

EMI vs Unapproved: What’s the Difference?
Understand the key differences between the UK’s most popular option schemes and which one suits which type of team member.

EMI Essentials:
Learn about the eligibility criteria, tax benefits and requirements for the UK’s tax-advantaged EMI scheme.

Unapproved Schemes Explained:
Discover when and how to use unapproved options for advisors, consultants and international hires.

Legal + Tax Made Simple:
Break down the legal and tax implications in plain English, no jargon, no confusion.

How to Combine Schemes:
Find out how companies use EMI and Unapproved schemes together to create a flexible and scalable incentives strategy.

Practical Setup Tips:
Get guidance on how to structure and implement your scheme correctly from the start including valuations, vesting and cap tables.

Avoid Costly Mistakes:
Uncover the most common pitfalls founders make when granting options and how to stay compliant with HMRC.

Engage with the Expert
Got questions? Bring them to the open Q&A session with Michael Buckworth, expert startup lawyer.

Meet the Speaker: Michael Buckworth, the founder of Buckworths and author of Built on Rock, the entrepreneur's legal guide to start-up success. Michael makes complex startup law simple and provides actionable advice you can implement immediately.

Download Chapter One of Built on Rock for free and start building your business on solid legal foundations: click here