Driven by a desire to “help entrepreneurs fulfill their American Dream,” Dan is known to be approachable and creative. One manufacturer client said, “Dan is not a typical lawyer. He is very creative and strategic in his thought process. He has the lawyer-logic brain and the ability to be creative.” He combines strategic questioning, passion and approachability to his work to take into consideration all possible implications for clients.
Dan has experience across many industries including technology, biotechnology, manufacturing, professional services and consumer products. He often works with companies that provide:
- Computer hardware and software
- Environmental technologies
- Food and beverage
- Medical devices
- Mobile applications
- Telecommunication
With an emphasis on issues encountered by private and venture capital-funded enterprises, which are either currently growing or poised for rapid future growth, Dan is well-versed in:
- Licensing
- Organizational and capital structuring, capital formation and venture capital finance
- Private offerings
- Securities law compliance
- Sell-side merger and acquisition exits
- Technology transfers and other intellectual property issues
- And other general corporate and governance concerns
Examples of recent work Dan has handled include:
- Providing Hennepin Theatre Trust with strategic counsel including a multi-year bond refinance and merger.
- Supporting the women’s soccer team, Minnesota Aurora FC, in their 2022 crowdfunding offering, which garnered local and national attention for its community-owned, women-led organizational structure. The crowdfunding program brought in more than 3,000 investors to launch the team.
- Managing a $325 million deal for Bite Squad, a Minnesota-based restaurant delivery service, which was acquired by Waitr Holdings, a fast-growing restaurant platform for online ordering and on-demand food delivery. The combination expanded Waitr’s scale and footprint across the U.S., serving over 86 markets in more than 500 cities and 22 states.
In addition, Dan takes pride in mentoring junior lawyers and entrepreneurs, a testament to his commitment to sharing his knowledge. He also is co-editor of the entreVIEW blog, which shares the entrepreneurial perspective of attorneys at the firm.
In working with Dan, clients can expect a committed partner who is not just a lawyer but, as Dan says, “a sherpa for entrepreneurs,” guiding them through the thrilling roller coaster of building successful businesses. His passion for entrepreneurship, combined with his approachable nature and seasoned wisdom, make him an ideal lawyer for anyone seeking to build or grow their business.
WHEN ASKED …
What inspires you about the practice of law?
What inspires me about the practice of law is the joy and excitement I derive from collaborating with colleagues and entrepreneurs to tackle complex issues. The spark of innovation I witness in an entrepreneur’s eyes as we work together to turn their ideas into thriving businesses is a remarkable experience. It’s not just about handling legalities or drafting contracts; it’s about being an integral part of the journey that transforms a bold vision into a tangible reality. This process, where law and entrepreneurship intersect and foster transformation, is what fuels my passion and excitement for my work each day. After 30+ years in this field, I relish working with energized entrepreneurs with intriguing business ideas as I can add significant value to their endeavors, assisting them in realizing their entrepreneurial aspirations.
What do you do outside of work?
Outside of the office, I’m an avid musical theatre supporter, having seen more than 750 unique musicals. I have served on the Board of the Minneapolis Musical Theater for more than 20 years, was part of the initial Board of Hennepin Theatre Trust, and am currently serving on that Board again. I co-wrote an original musical, Pickle-Chiffon Pie, based on the children’s book of the same name, which had its world premiere at the Orlando Repertory Theatre in 2022. The musical is scheduled for production in the Twin Cities in early 2024.
My love for sports also runs deep. I am a ‘Pickleball Evangelist,’ passionate about volleyball and slalom waterskiing, and I love taking adventurous vacations where hiking, biking and ziplining take precedence over indoor activities. As somewhat of a foodie too, I appreciate exploring diverse culinary experiences. Most of all, I treasure spending quality time with my wife and our two daughters.
