Protect · 5 min read
Who owns the code when a friend, intern or agency builds your MVP?
Why paying for, or being friends with, the person who wrote the code does not settle ownership.
Pending professional review. Starter text. This page requires final review by Govind Preet Singh (and any other appropriate professional) before production launch.
The short version
Paying for something or agreeing informally does not always mean you own it. Ownership usually depends on what was written down and on the legal position of the person who created the work.
What to put in writing
Ask everyone who contributes code, design or content to sign a short agreement that says the work belongs to the company, and confirms they are free to give it.
Check open-source components
Most products include open-source software. Each component comes with a licence, and some licences place conditions on how you can distribute your product.
Why investors ask
Investors and acquirers check that the company actually owns what it claims to sell. Clean records here save time later.
General information only. Not legal, tax or investment advice. No professional or client relationship is created by reading this article.