Of course, all employees, collaborators, and contractors should sign NDAs. That is standard practice.
But these are a few people you might not have thought of:
Manufacturers, Engineering Consultants, and Testing Facilities
Are you freaking kidding me?
I cannot tell you how many entrepreneurs will get or try to get their mother, their patent attorney, and every venture capitalist (VC) they meet to sign their NDA – and then they do not require the person helping them manufacture their invention to sign the NDA.
Your soccer mom, patent attorneys, and VCs usually do not have the equipment, contacts or desire to steal your idea and start competing against you.
A contract manufacturer or engineering firm usually has ALL of the equipment and contacts necessary to make your product. That was the whole point of contacting them in the first place. Do not be fooled by the “free consultation.” Without a contract in place, they can easily steal your invention and start competing against you.
Co-Founders, Partners, Co-Owners
Most entrepreneurs require their employees to sign an NDA. But they do not think to have their co-founder, partner, or co-owner sign an NDA. The reasons for this range from “we’re such good friends” to “they have just as much to lose as I do if this gets out.”
But what happens when the friendship is over? What happens when they do not have as much to lose as you? Once you break-up or they sell their interest in your business, can they just tell everyone your trade secrets and your not-yet-patented technology?
This is a huge blind spot for many entrepreneurs. Will you wait until they’re out the door or will you get them to sign your NDA right now?
Don’t know what to do?
Call Childs Patent Law at 832-621-0353 to schedule a complimentary consultation with me and I will be happy to discuss getting the right NDAs in place. We’re available Monday through Friday to answer your questions.