Lots of technology startups, internet startups and software startups I work with have typically developed some degree of intellectual property prior to actually organizing a business entity (corporation, LLC…etc).  Sometimes that IP is very early stage, sometimes, especially in the case where a founder is a developer or engineer, the IP may be very far along in terms of development.  Sometimes that IP may simply be a domain name. This may not seem like a big problem initially – but if the company ever wants to (a) enter into any significant contractual relationships relating directly or indirectly to the IP, (b) raise capital via private equity or debt, or (c) sell the business, not assigning the IP to the company can be a big problem.  The other parties in the transactions mentioned in the previous sentence will require that the company represent that it owns the IP – and when it can’t (because it doesn’t) – those other parties will require that it be duly assigned by the founder to the company.  What is the founder then demands a big payday?  What if he walks – and takes the IP with him?

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Not all of us are willing to chuck the shoes and head out sans shoes.  If your interested in running barefoot, but worry about the debris in your neighborhood you should look into the Vibram Five Fingers which provide the closest you can come to running barefoot, while still protecting your feet.  Also, another great resource for these unique shoes is www.birthdayshoes.com.

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