Question: Do the readers of my business plan need to sign a non-disclosure agreement?
Answer: A non-disclosure agreement (NDA) can send up red flags to your intended audience. A seasoned banker or venture capitalist is bound by client confidentiality and may find a NDA insulting. Secondly, if the business needs to protect its ideas and concept at this stage of the game than there may not be any barriers to entry for others to enter the market. A simple confidentiality clause at the front of the plan should suffice. In some cases, such as setting up a strategic alliance a non-disclosure may be necessary. If in doubt, consult with a lawyer.
