David Willbrand's Linkedin Analytics

David J. Willbrand is a seasoned lawyer, experienced tech executive, and trusted business advisor with over 25 years of experience in the boardroom – and in the trenches. Currently serving as the Chief Legal Officer of Pacaso, a groundbreaking tech unicorn, David has played a pivotal role in the company’s rapid ascent by designing, implementing, and overseeing novel and effective legal, regulatory, and financial strategies. Prior to joining Pacaso, David founded, built, and chaired one of the Midwest’s most prominent tech and venture capital legal practices. Over his career, he has advised startups, founders, and investors on more than 1,000 financings across a wide range of industries. His deep expertise in deal structuring and financial strategy has made him a trusted partner to entrepreneurs and executives navigating the challenges of scaling a business. In addition to his professional practice, David is a passionate educator and mentor. He teaches multiple courses on “Startups” and “Venture Capital” at the University of Michigan Law School. For over a decade, he has also provided both structured instruction and informal mentorship to entrepreneurs at the Harvard Innovation Labs and through Techstars, where he is an Entrepreneur-in-Residence with its San Francisco program, helping founders refine their strategies for growth and success. David is the author of “Seed Deals: How to Grow from Startup to Venture Capital,” a practical guide designed for founders, law students, and new lawyers seeking to understand capitalization and fundraising. Through his executive, advisory, teaching, and writing roles, David continues to shape the entrepreneurial ecosystem with his insights, leadership, and unwavering commitment to innovation – and to those who innovate.