Ask HN: Is it ok to create/start writing code for a startup while employeed

1 point·ashah888··4 comments

Is it ok to create/start working on a startup while employeed by another company?

I’m thinking of working on a MVP software on my free time. If that’s not ok, I’m thinking of taking 3 weeks off from work. Will either be ok?

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The real question is, is the MVP software you build in your free time owned by you or your employer? The answer depends on what your employment contract says and on the laws of your state/country.

I'm in ... California, Silicon Valley. Does anyone know if the laws of Silicon Valley prevent me from making something on the side outside employed hours?

No, it's not ok, now eat your supper and go to bed!

Presumably you're a grown adult, you don't need our permission to do anything. You're asking the wrong questions.

You should be asking, what is it I want to do? Will 3 weeks be enough? (it won't) Does my employment contract allow for this? How would they even know unless you tell them?

Work on it in your free time, don't tell anybody, especially your employer. When/if you're ready to launch and if there's going to be a conflict of interest you can quit then.

You should read your employment agreement. If it states that you can't do that, and you signed it, then you're giving your employer grounds to fire you and sue you. You could always ask your employer -- they are in a better position to answer your question than I am. :)

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