For space, defense, and industrial technology companies, securing government contracts is often a major growth milestone. But without a clear IP strategy, working with agencies like NASA or the Department of Defense (DoD) can put a startup’s long-term technology ownership at risk.

A common misconception is that working with the government means giving up your IP rights. In reality, companies may negotiate favorable terms—but only if they plan ahead.

A well-structured IP strategy aims to ensure that companies can:

• Retain ownership of their core technologies while meeting government funding requirements.
• Negotiate licensing terms that allow for future commercialization.
• Prevent IP leakage by structuring agreements with subcontractors and research partners.

Companies that fail to plan for IP ownership risk losing commercial value or facing licensing restrictions that hurt long-term growth.

Before signing any government contract, deep tech companies should conduct a full IP audit and work with legal counsel to structure agreements that protect their innovations beyond the scope of a single contract.