Memorandum of Understanding Template
Establish a clear framework for collaboration between your organization and a partner. This MOU helps align goals and expectations before entering a formal contract.
Preview
How to use this template
- Fill in the placeholders with your partnership details.
- Review the responsibilities and terms to ensure they are balanced.
- Download the document as a PDF or copy the text.
- Sign the document with your partner to formalize the intent.
When to use this template
Use a memorandum of understanding (MOU) when two organizations, such as companies, non-profits or schools, want to record a cooperation: the shared goal, who does what, and for how long.
An MOU is usually not legally binding, apart from confidentiality. If you need enforceable promises, such as payments or deliverables, sign a contract instead or next to it.
Check before you sign
- The purpose is clear enough to judge whether the cooperation works.
- Each party's responsibilities are listed separately.
- Costs are clear: who pays for what.
- There is a simple way to end the MOU early.
- Nothing in the MOU suggests binding obligations that you do not want.
Full text of the memorandum of understanding template
This is the complete template. Words in [brackets] are filled in automatically when you use the form above; where the template has options, the form shows only the one you choose.
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
1. Parties and Purpose
This Memorandum of Understanding (the "Memorandum") is made on [Effective date] between:
[Party A name], located at [Party A address] ("Party A"), and
[Party B name], located at [Party B address] ("Party B").
The parties intend to cooperate and collaborate on the following purpose: [Purpose of the cooperation].
2. Responsibilities of [Party A name]
[Party A name] agrees to undertake the following activities and responsibilities: [What Party A will do]
3. Responsibilities of [Party B name]
[Party B name] agrees to undertake the following activities and responsibilities: [What Party B will do]
4. Term
This Memorandum will begin on [Start date] and will remain in effect until [End date]. The parties may extend this period by mutual written agreement.
5. Costs and Expenses
Unless otherwise agreed upon in writing, each party is responsible for all costs and expenses incurred in connection with the performance of its own responsibilities under this Memorandum.
6. Communication and Review
The parties will appoint primary contact persons to coordinate activities. They agree to hold regular meetings to review progress, address challenges, and ensure the goals of the cooperation are being met.
7. Branding and Intellectual Property
Neither party may use the other party's name, logo, or trademarks in any press release, advertisement, or public announcement without obtaining prior written permission from the other party.
8. Confidentiality
The parties agree to keep confidential all non-public information shared during this collaboration. This obligation remains binding regardless of whether this Memorandum is terminated.
9. Non-Binding Nature
This Memorandum is a statement of intent and records the parties' current goals. With the exception of the clauses regarding Confidentiality, Governing Law, and this Non-Binding Nature clause, this document does not create any legally binding obligations.
Any formal, binding commitments must be documented in a separate written agreement signed by both parties.
10. Early Termination
Either party may terminate this Memorandum at any time, for any reason, by providing [Notice to end early] days of written notice to the other party.
11. Governing Law
This Memorandum shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of [Governing law].
Signatures
Party A
Signature: ____________________
Name and title: ____________________
Date: ____________________
Party B
Signature: ____________________
Name and title: ____________________
Date: ____________________
Frequently asked questions
What is this document for?
This memorandum is used when two or more organizations want to cooperate on a specific project or goal. It outlines the shared vision and the role of each party without immediately creating a heavy legal burden.
What should I include in my MOU?
You should clearly define the purpose of the collaboration, the specific tasks each party is responsible for, and the timeframe for the partnership. It is also important to specify how the parties will communicate.
Is this template legally binding?
While a signed document can be binding, this is a general template and does not constitute legal advice. You should have a qualified lawyer review the final version to ensure it meets your specific needs and local laws.
What is the difference between an MOU and a contract?
An MOU records a shared intention to work together, much like a letter of intent, while a contract creates obligations that can be enforced in court. Most MOUs are not legally binding, except for specific clauses such as confidentiality. If you need enforceable commitments, such as payments or deliverables, sign a contract.
Can I edit the text of the clauses?
Yes. Once you download or copy the text into your own editor, you can modify, add, or remove any language to better suit your partnership.
Is my data stored on your servers?
No. All data you enter into the template stays within your browser and is not saved or transmitted to our servers.
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