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Ask HN: How do you handle NDA'd projects and VCs?
I know VCs don't generally sign NDAs, and that your idea isn't so special, etc.-- but how do you handle discussions with VCs that are about work you're doing for an external client that's highly confidential, such that it wouldn't be the startup's call to disclose it? If it's a source of revenue and a major consumer of engineering time it would obviously be of interest to the investor, but you're under NDA and can't discuss it. What do you do in this situation?
- answerly 18y agoIt might make sense to be open with the client about your motives and try to get them to help you determine what type of information related to the relationship they are comfortable with you sharing with potential investors. You run the risk that they tell you not to disclose anything at all, but knowing that upfront is probably better than disclosing too much without their knowledge/approval.
- wavesplash 18y agoSame as you would anyone else. You tell the VC that you can't discuss the details. If they want details they have to sign the NDA for the 3rd party company. You can always talk about the commitment in general terms (revenue vs. time spent) and if it's strategic to the growth of the company. The rest of the details don't matter much unless the 3rd party is in their portfolio or a competing portfolio.