Need a place to take all the business questions people are asking you? We have what you need: AskMe
vote up 1 vote down
star

hi guys,

this might sound insane and "oh, here's another next big idea", but I truly believe I've thought of something unique and technologically quite easy, with a huge demand to boot.

My question is - do I and can I copyright simply an idea, BEFORE speaking to investors?

Because I need the idea to be copyrighted before I can pitch for private investment, as they can steal the idea

How does this work?

flag

1 Answer

vote up 1 vote down

Hi Nick,

Nope. Ideas cannot be protected by copyright. Or any other 'protection' registration like trademarks, etc.

What you need is a good business attorney. Get a 'non-disclsoure' or 'non-compete' agreement prepared. Get it signed by your prospective investor before you show them the idea. This is just slightly better than nothing. :)

This is one of those 'catch 22' situations. You will have to 'trust' somebody, and hope for the best. Prepare yourself. Create some kind of record that the idea is yours, that it existed BEFORE you showed it to somebody. Unfortunately, your 'word' is seldom enough to convince a judge - they like proof. And if somebody 'steals' your idea, that is likely the only way you have to make any claims.

You might be able to obtain protections under the patent laws, but my read on that is that you must actually have a model or design. Again, a good attorney is the best advisor for you.

Good Luck!

link|flag

Your Answer

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.