About This Document

This Advisor Agreement establishes the relationship between a company and an independent Advisor who will provide mentorship, advice, and strategic support.
It clearly outlines services, compensation, confidentiality obligations, intellectual property rights, and non-solicitation terms to protect the company's interests while engaging outside experts.

Who Should Use This Template

• Startups and growth companies seeking expert guidance without hiring full-time employees

• Businesses formalizing relationships with mentors, industry advisors, board advisors, or consultants

• Companies offering equity or cash compensation to advisors

• Organizations preparing for fundraising, where clearly documented advisory relationships are important

What the Template Includes

• Scope of Services to be provided by the Advisor (customizable in Exhibit A)

• Compensation structure, including equity grants, cash payments, or both

• Reimbursement terms for reasonable, pre-approved business expenses

• Term and termination procedures, with at-will exit rights for both parties

• Independent contractor status, preserving legal separation from employee classification

• Detailed Confidential Information protections and Nondisclosure requirements

• Assignment of Intellectual Property Rights in any work product developed by the Advisor

• Non-solicitation clause restricting poaching of employees or consultants

• Indemnity clauses and limitations of liability

• Governing law and dispute resolution provisions

• Editable Word format for flexible customization

Instructions for Completing the Template

• Insert the Company’s legal name, Advisor’s name, and the Effective Date at the beginning.

• Define the Services and expected deliverables in Exhibit A, including:

  • Estimated hours per month (if applicable)

  • Specific advice areas (e.g., business development, fundraising, product strategy)

• Complete the Compensation section in Exhibit A:

  • Equity details (number of shares/options, vesting schedule, acceleration clauses)

  • Cash payment details (monthly retainer amount, payment terms)

• Insert the State of Governing Law where the Company is based.

• Customize optional provisions about public use of Advisor’s name/image if needed for marketing materials.

• Ensure signatures and addresses are provided for both parties on the final signature page.

Important Reminder

This document is provided as a template to assist with standard advisor engagement arrangements.
It does not constitute legal advice. You should consult a qualified attorney to tailor the Advisor Agreement to your company’s specific compensation practices, confidentiality needs, intellectual property policies, and compliance requirements.