Definition
IP Acquisition
When a founder winds down a company but retains ownership of the technology they built — enabling a fresh start with proven assets, no team overhead, and full control over direction.
From the episode “Social Media Is Killing Your Memories”Hear it on the podcast1 episode
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Related terms in Startups & Fundraising
Idea ValidationThe process of gathering real-world evidence that a problem exists, that your target customers experience it acutely, and that they would pay for a solution — before building the product. Validation is evidence, not enthusiasm or polite interest.In-Flow Expert MarketplaceA real-time marketplace model where domain experts are available immediately — matched to specific tool or problem types, priced per minute of session time. Contrasted with async platforms (Fiverr, Upwork) that require multi-day posting, vetting, and scoping processes that are themselves flow-breaking. Designed to feel like office hours: casual expert availability, no portfolio management overhead, connection via Zoom with screen share. On Demand Human is the canonical example for the vibe coding use case.IncumbentThe contractor currently holding a government contract. Understanding incumbent strength — their relationship with the agency, contract lineage, and past performance — is central to the P-Win calculation.Inflection PointThe moment growth accelerates, often triggering operational and spending mistakes.IP assignmentTransferring intellectual property to the company so a founder cannot leave and start a competitor with it.IPOInitial public offering, taking a private company onto public markets.Liquidity eventAny transaction that converts founder equity into cash.LOILetter of intent, the early signal Nick groveled for to prove demand.