Startup Intellectual Property: Why Invention Assignments Matter
By Dion Macbeth, California attorney
Investors and acquirers expect a startup to own the intellectual property it says it is building. Ownership should be documented before a dispute or financing makes the gap expensive.
Map who created what
Identify founders, employees, contractors, advisors, prior employers, open-source components, and university or grant obligations. Use written invention-assignment and confidentiality agreements that match the relationship and jurisdiction.
Clean ownership before financing
A diligence request can uncover missing assignments, contractor gaps, code copied from a prior employer, or open-source restrictions. Fixing ownership before a term sheet or acquisition improves leverage and credibility.
Common Questions
Further Detail
Ownership can depend on when and how the work was created, prior agreements, employment, use of resources, and applicable law. Document it rather than assume.
Usually, yes. A payment invoice alone may not clearly transfer all rights the startup needs.
Legal Guidance
Discuss This Matter With Harrington Wells
Contact Harrington Wells to request an initial review. The firm will determine whether the matter falls within its current scope and capacity.
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