Startup Professionals Musings

DECEMBER 29, 2017

As an advisor to entrepreneurs, I often have to deal with people who are convinced that they must get me to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) before they begin talks about their new venture. Don’t ask for an NDA from trusted investors and advisors.

Non-disclosure Agreement 153

Non-disclosure Agreement NDA Technical Review Due Diligence 153

Startup Professionals Musings

FEBRUARY 27, 2016

Crowdfunding platforms don’t have the facilities to handle non-disclosure agreements that you might expect from every professional investor. On the other hand, if your solution is aimed at boomers or requires in-depth technical knowledge, crowdfunding may be futile. Be extra careful with your intellectual property.

Non-disclosure Agreement 120

Non-disclosure Agreement Intellectual Property Technical Review Vesting 120

Startup Professionals Musings

NOVEMBER 10, 2014

Even online, the type of people who may respond to social media requests may bear very little relationship to the intended market. Non-disclosure agreements can’t be done in these environments. Crowd sample size and makeup not representative of market. Investors are not prepared for the high risk of startups.

Non-disclosure Agreement 254

Non-disclosure Agreement Intellectual Property Accredited Investor Equity 254

Startup Professionals Musings

MARCH 17, 2013

Even online, the type of people who may respond to social media requests may bear very little relationship to the intended market. Non-disclosure agreements can’t be done in these environments. Crowd sample size and makeup not representative of market. Investors are not prepared for the high risk of startups.

Non-disclosure Agreement 266

Non-disclosure Agreement Intellectual Property Accredited Investor Equity 266

Startup Professionals Musings

JUNE 25, 2011

Crowd-sourcing tools, usually Internet applications, use the social media to poll for interest, feedback, and ultimately some funding for the startup. Even online, the type of people who may respond to social media requests may bear very little relationship to the intended market. Intellectual property is jeopardized.

Non-disclosure Agreement 230

Non-disclosure Agreement Intellectual Property Startup Social Media 230

Startup Professionals Musings

SEPTEMBER 21, 2015

For example, think of all the specialized social-media sites that allow the use of your Facebook or Twitter credentials, instead of forcing a new one. In every case, make sure your intellectual property is protected up front with a two-way non-disclosure agreement. And growth is the lifeblood of every startup.

Non-disclosure Agreement 120

Non-disclosure Agreement Intellectual Property Non-Compete Startup 120

Startup Professionals Musings

MAY 21, 2010

Crowd-sourcing tools, usually Internet applications, use the social media to poll for interest, feedback, and ultimately some funding for the startup. Even online, the type of people who may respond to social media requests may bear very little relationship to the intended market. Intellectual property is jeopardized.

Non-disclosure Agreement 149

Non-disclosure Agreement Intellectual Property Startup Social Media 149