Narwhal Law and Business Strategy – Portland, OR

Strategic Counsel for Mission-Driven Changemakers

Narwhal Law and Business Strategy is a unique legal and consulting practice located in the heart of Portland’s Central Eastside. Founded and led by Michael Jonas, JD, MBA, the firm stands apart as a Certified Benefit Company dedicated to balancing profit with purpose. Michael Jonas, who previously founded and successfully exited the award-winning Rational Unicorn Legal Services, created Narwhal to dive deeper into the strategic needs of nonprofits, small businesses, and community organizations. The firm’s philosophy is inspired by its namesake, the narwhal-the "unicorn of the sea"-representing resilience, uniqueness, and the ability to navigate deep, changing waters. Unlike traditional law firms that often focus solely on risk avoidance, Narwhal Law combines legal compliance with forward-thinking business strategy to help organizations thrive.

Holistic Services for Organizations

The firm offers a blend of legal counsel and business consulting, specifically tailored for entities that prioritize social impact over pure profit.

• Nonprofit Law & Strategy: Guiding organizations through formation, tax-exempt status (501c3), board governance, and compliance, while also advising on fundraising and program development.
• Business Formation & Governance: Helping entrepreneurs choose the right entity structure, draft operating agreements, and certify as B-Corps or Benefit Companies.
• Contract Drafting & Review: Creating clear, plain-English agreements for employees, contractors, vendors, and partners that protect interests without creating barriers.
• Conflict Resolution: Providing mediation and facilitation services to resolve internal disputes between boards, staff, and stakeholders constructively.
• Strategic Planning: Assisting leadership teams in defining their vision, scaling their impact, and navigating organizational transitions.

Community-Centered Approach

Narwhal Law and Business Strategy is built on the belief that legal services should be accessible, transparent, and relationship-driven. The firm operates largely on a flat-fee and pay-as-you-go model, eliminating the uncertainty of billable hours and allowing clients to budget effectively. Michael Jonas is a staunch advocate for diversity and inclusion, with a particular focus on supporting LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC-led organizations. His work has earned him recognition as the Oregon Small Business Champion of the Year by the SBA in 2023. Clients appreciate Michael’s "grit and grace" approach-combining tough legal advocacy with empathetic support during difficult times.

"We don’t just advise mission-driven businesses-we are one. We help you build with confidence so you can focus on changing the world."

The firm’s office in the Central Eastside Industrial District serves as a hub for collaboration. Whether you are a mutual aid group needing governance structure or a tech startup seeking to bake sustainability into your bylaws, Narwhal Law and Business Strategy provides the innovative guidance needed to turn big ideas into lasting change.

Central Eastside Location

The firm is located at 1011 SE Oak Street, in a shared creative workspace building in the vibrant Central Eastside. This location is surrounded by other makers, nonprofits, and small businesses, reflecting the firm’s deep connection to Portland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The office is easily accessible via transit and offers a welcoming, non-corporate environment for clients 🦄🌊⚖️.