About This Document
This Confidential Information and Invention Assignment Agreement protects a company's intellectual property and proprietary information when hiring employees or contractors.
It ensures that anything created during the engagement belongs to the company and that confidential information is safeguarded during and after the relationship.
Who Should Use This Template
Companies onboarding new employees or independent contractors, especially in tech, product development, or creative roles
Startups and small businesses needing to protect inventions, trademarks, code, business plans, or customer lists
Organizations preparing for venture funding or acquisition, where clear IP ownership is critical
Founders and hiring managers who want to establish IP rights and confidentiality early and clearly
What the Template Includes
Acknowledgement of employment or consulting relationship (at-will status)
Definition and protection of Company Confidential Information
Assignment of inventions and all intellectual property created during the relationship
Disclosure requirements for pre-existing inventions (Exhibit B)
Clear handling of third-party confidential information
Maintenance of invention records and company property
Non-solicitation clause preventing poaching of employees or customers post-relationship
Procedures for returning company property upon termination
Termination Certification (Exhibit C) to finalize obligations
Dispute resolution terms and designation of Delaware law as governing jurisdiction
Editable Word format for easy adaptation
Instructions for Completing the Template
Insert the Company name throughout the agreement.
Customize the role of the individual (employee vs. consultant).
Complete Exhibit A listing any prior obligations the individual has (if none, confirm that in writing).
Complete Exhibit B if the individual has any prior inventions to exclude (otherwise, check "No inventions or improvements").
Ensure the individual understands and signs the agreement before starting work.
Review Exhibit C (Termination Certification) and ensure it is signed upon the individual's departure.
Keep all signed documents securely in the individual’s personnel or contractor file.
Important Reminder
This document is provided as a template to assist with protecting company confidential information and intellectual property rights. It does not constitute legal advice. Companies should consult a qualified attorney to review and tailor the agreement for specific jurisdictions, business models, and regulatory compliance needs — especially if operating across multiple states or internationally.
About This Document
This Confidential Information and Invention Assignment Agreement protects a company's intellectual property and proprietary information when hiring employees or contractors.
It ensures that anything created during the engagement belongs to the company and that confidential information is safeguarded during and after the relationship.
Who Should Use This Template
Companies onboarding new employees or independent contractors, especially in tech, product development, or creative roles
Startups and small businesses needing to protect inventions, trademarks, code, business plans, or customer lists
Organizations preparing for venture funding or acquisition, where clear IP ownership is critical
Founders and hiring managers who want to establish IP rights and confidentiality early and clearly
What the Template Includes
Acknowledgement of employment or consulting relationship (at-will status)
Definition and protection of Company Confidential Information
Assignment of inventions and all intellectual property created during the relationship
Disclosure requirements for pre-existing inventions (Exhibit B)
Clear handling of third-party confidential information
Maintenance of invention records and company property
Non-solicitation clause preventing poaching of employees or customers post-relationship
Procedures for returning company property upon termination
Termination Certification (Exhibit C) to finalize obligations
Dispute resolution terms and designation of Delaware law as governing jurisdiction
Editable Word format for easy adaptation
Instructions for Completing the Template
Insert the Company name throughout the agreement.
Customize the role of the individual (employee vs. consultant).
Complete Exhibit A listing any prior obligations the individual has (if none, confirm that in writing).
Complete Exhibit B if the individual has any prior inventions to exclude (otherwise, check "No inventions or improvements").
Ensure the individual understands and signs the agreement before starting work.
Review Exhibit C (Termination Certification) and ensure it is signed upon the individual's departure.
Keep all signed documents securely in the individual’s personnel or contractor file.
Important Reminder
This document is provided as a template to assist with protecting company confidential information and intellectual property rights. It does not constitute legal advice. Companies should consult a qualified attorney to review and tailor the agreement for specific jurisdictions, business models, and regulatory compliance needs — especially if operating across multiple states or internationally.
