Michelle Thimesch

About Michelle Thimesch

Forward-thinking and Industry-recognized attorney with over two decades of experience navigating complex regulatory environments throughout Small Business Finance, Non-Profit Housing, Real Estate, FinTech, Startup and Pro-Social realms. Founder of a highly regulated Fintech funding portal, and an economic development fund, with first-hand experience raising capital from angel and institutional investors. Transformational subject-matter expert known for positively challenging the status quo, structuring outside-the-box deals and securities exemptions while understanding the impacts of policies on both a legal and practical level. Admired for infusing fresh perspectives by re-imagining best practices, processes, and frameworks to reflect ever-evolving business, finance and economic landscape. Key areas of work: Securities Law, Fundraising Strategies, Impact Investing, Crowdfunding, Deal Structuring, Legal Compliance, Due Diligence, Investment Documentation, Social Entrepreneurship, Mission Alignment, ESG Considerations, Impact Measurement, Regulatory Compliance, Investor Relations, Business Strategy, Ethical Fundraising, Contract Negotiation, Corporate Governance, Strategic Partnerships, Counselling

Experience

1. Chief Executive Officer

   Crowdfund Mainstreet

   Jan 2017 — Present · US

   Crowdfund Main Street is a registered Regulation Crowdfunding portal that seeks to bring together small business innovation and the financing that makes it possible start or grow these ventures. CMS makes it possible for anyone to invest in small businesses doing the kind of work they believe in and want to support. • Successfully navigated the complex regulatory landscape, leading CMS through the rigorous FINRA approval process and ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations and guidelines.• Developed and implemented effective crowdfunding campaigns, leveraging innovative marketing strategies to attract a diverse pool of investors and support a wide range of small businesses.• Fostered strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, investors, legal advisors, and regulatory authorities, to build a robust ecosystem that promotes small business growth and investor confidence.• Provided ongoing support and resources to entrepreneurs after their successful crowdfunding campaigns, helping them navigate post-funding challenges and scale their businesses effectively.• Evaluated and pursued strategic growth opportunities, including geographic expansion, new product offerings, and diversification of investment options, to broaden the scope and appeal of the CMS platform.• Led CMS\'s efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion within the crowdfunding ecosystem, ensuring equitable and fair access to funding opportunities for underrepresented entrepreneurs and businesses.

Education

• Drake University Law School

  Juris Doctorate, Law

  1985 — 1988

• Univeristy of Illinois, Urbana Champaign

  Bachelor's Speech Communication, Speech Communication and Rhetoric

  1981 — 1985