IP Chain-of-Title: The Silent Killer of Fundraises and Exits in the Saskatchewan Startup Space
What is the IP chain‑of‑title, and why does it matter to investors?
IP chain‑of‑title risk occurs when a company cannot clearly prove it owns the intellectual property (IP) created by founders, employees, contractors, or partners. These gaps often surface during fundraising or acquisitions and can delay or kill deals entirely.
If the company cannot prove it owns its IP, investors and acquirers do not see a business. They see a risk-shaped hole where value should be.
Why IP ownership is a leverage issue, not just a legal issue
IP is not just “tech.” It is leverage.
But IP is also people: founders, employees, contractors, advisors, partners, sometimes even customers. The relationship risk is simple – people tend to believe they own what they create unless the paperwork says otherwise.
