Non-Disclosure Agreement Examples for Trade Secrets

Explore practical examples of Non-Disclosure Agreements to protect trade secrets.
By Jamie

Understanding Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) for Trade Secrets

Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) are essential legal documents that protect sensitive information, such as trade secrets, from being disclosed to unauthorized parties. They are commonly used in various industries and situations to ensure that proprietary information remains confidential. Below are three diverse examples of Non-Disclosure Agreements specifically tailored for trade secrets.

Example 1: NDA for a Startup Sharing Proprietary Technology

Context

A tech startup is seeking to share its proprietary software technology with potential investors. To secure its innovative processes and algorithms, the startup needs an NDA that ensures confidentiality during discussions.

The following is an example of such an NDA:

NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT

This Non-Disclosure Agreement (“Agreement”) is made as of [Date] by and between [Startup Name], a [State] corporation with a principal place of business at [Address] (“Disclosing Party”), and [Investor Name], located at [Address] (“Receiving Party”).

1. **Definition of Confidential Information**: For purposes of this Agreement, “Confidential Information” includes all written, electronic, or oral information regarding the Disclosing Party's proprietary technology, including but not limited to software code, algorithms, and business strategies.

2. **Obligations of Receiving Party**: The Receiving Party agrees to:
   a. Maintain the confidentiality of the Confidential Information;
   b. Not disclose any Confidential Information to third parties without the prior written consent of the Disclosing Party;
   c. Use the Confidential Information solely for the purpose of evaluating a potential investment in the Disclosing Party.

3. **Term**: This Agreement shall commence on the date first written above and shall continue in effect for a period of [number] years.

4. **Governing Law**: This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of [State].

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

[Disclosing Party Signature]  [Date]  [Receiving Party Signature]  [Date]

Notes

  • Ensure that the definition of “Confidential Information” is comprehensive to cover all necessary aspects of the technology.
  • Consider including clauses about the return of materials or information upon request.

Example 2: NDA for a Manufacturer Sharing Product Formulas

Context

A manufacturer is entering into a partnership with a supplier to develop a new product. To protect its proprietary formulas, the manufacturer requires the supplier to sign an NDA.

Here’s an example NDA:

NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT

This Non-Disclosure Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into as of [Date] by and between [Manufacturer Name], with an address at [Address] (“Disclosing Party”), and [Supplier Name], located at [Address] (“Receiving Party”).

1. **Definition of Confidential Information**: “Confidential Information” shall include all non-public information related to the Disclosing Party’s product formulations, manufacturing processes, and any related data.

2. **Use of Confidential Information**: The Receiving Party agrees to use the Confidential Information solely for the purpose of fulfilling its obligations under this Agreement and shall not use it for any other purpose.

3. **Protection of Confidential Information**: The Receiving Party shall take all reasonable measures to protect the Confidential Information from unauthorized access.

4. **Duration**: The obligations of confidentiality shall continue for a period of [number] years from the date of disclosure.

5. **Jurisdiction**: This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of [State].

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

[Disclosing Party Signature]  [Date]  [Receiving Party Signature]  [Date]

Notes

  • Adjust the duration of the confidentiality obligations based on the sensitivity of the information shared.
  • Include provisions for potential disputes to ensure clarity.

Example 3: NDA for a Consultant Accessing Client Trade Secrets

Context

A consulting firm is hired by a retail company to improve its supply chain processes. As part of the engagement, the consultant will access sensitive trade secrets. An NDA is essential to protect this information.

Here’s a suitable NDA for this scenario:

NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT

This Non-Disclosure Agreement (“Agreement”) is effective as of [Date], by and between [Retail Company Name], with an address at [Address] (“Disclosing Party”), and [Consultant Name], located at [Address] (“Receiving Party”).

1. **Confidential Information**: “Confidential Information” means all trade secrets, operational data, and business strategies disclosed by the Disclosing Party to the Receiving Party, including but not limited to supply chain logistics and pricing strategies.

2. **Confidentiality Obligations**: The Receiving Party agrees to:
   a. Treat all Confidential Information with the utmost care;
   b. Not disclose Confidential Information to any third parties without prior written consent;
   c. Use Confidential Information solely for the purpose of consulting services.

3. **Term of Agreement**: This Agreement shall remain in effect for [number] years or until the Confidential Information no longer qualifies as a trade secret.

4. **Governing Law**: This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of [State].

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

[Disclosing Party Signature]  [Date]  [Receiving Party Signature]  [Date]

Notes

  • Clearly define the term of confidentiality, especially if trade secrets may evolve over time.
  • Review and update the NDA as necessary to reflect changes in the relationship or information shared.