There are many obstacles to launching an IPO and, as the old adage goes, “by failing to prepare for failure, you’re setting yourself up to fail.” But with careful planning, strategic foresight and meticulous attention to particulars, companies are able to successfully conduct an IPO.

The first step in the process is to conduct a thorough due diligence process by your investment bank or law firm, as well as your accounting firm (auditor). This involves a review of the company’s financials and documents such as historical performance projections of risk factors, as well as internal controls. This review should be completed well in advance of the planned IPO date in order for companies to solve any issues that might occur and delay the listing.

Once the due diligence process is complete then the next step is to create the registration statement and prospectus. This involves a thorough study of the company’s history and current performance, identification of and assessing the potential financial risks, as well as drafting strategies to raise capital. Management should be involved in the creation of these documents, since they are the best persons to know the company’s needs and ensure that the content is in line with their vision.

After the documents have been completed, they must be filed with SEC and then listed on a stock ipo preparation checklist exchange. This process usually requires the assistance of an SEC filer or financial printer who is well-versed in underwriter style and SEC formatting requirements. This experience can reduce the risk and liability associated with submitting incorrectly. Carta’s private market liquidity solutions can delay the listing so that you can launch your business at the ideal timing for your business.