Memorandum of Understanding
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) is a document describing mutual intentions and framework terms between parties, which may be non-binding except for specified clauses. Use this early in a partnership or grant discussion to align on goals, timelines, and next steps before lawyers draft the full agreement. It can bind confidentiality or exclusivity only if stated.
What's included
A ready-to-use memorandum of understanding covering purpose and background of collaboration, roles and high-level responsibilities, timeline and milestones toward definitive agreements, with signature fields already placed for Party A and Party B. Fill in the bracketed details (like [Company Name] or [Date]) using Docracy's built-in text editor, then send it out for signature.
This is a general template for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney to review it for your specific situation and jurisdiction before use.
Key clauses
- Purpose and background of collaboration
- Roles and high-level responsibilities
- Timeline and milestones toward definitive agreements
- Confidentiality or exclusivity if binding
- Non-binding disclaimer for commercial terms
- Signatories and effective date
What you'll fill in
[Party A][Party B][Subject of MOU][Key Objectives][Target Definitive Agreement Date][Binding Clauses if Any][Effective Date]Legal summary
Most MOU language is aspirational unless explicitly binding; parties should not assume enforceable payment or performance duties without definitive contracts. Selected clauses like confidentiality may still bind.
Free for up to 2 signers, no account required. Need unlimited? Flat $10/month.
FAQ
Is this Memorandum of Understanding legally binding?
Signing through Docracy uses a simple electronic signature (SES), which is legally recognized for everyday business agreements under laws like the U.S. ESIGN Act and the EU's eIDAS regulation. This is a general template, not legal advice — for high-stakes or regulated agreements, have a qualified attorney review it for your situation.
Who needs to sign this Memorandum of Understanding?
This template includes signature fields for Party A and Party B — already placed — plus 7 placeholder fields to fill in before you send it.
Can I edit this Memorandum of Understanding before sending it?
Yes — Docracy's editor lets you edit the text, add or remove signature fields, redact sections, and reorder pages before you send it.
Do I need an account to send this Memorandum of Understanding?
No — it's free for up to 2 signers with no account required. Create a free account only if you want to save it to a dashboard or reuse it later.
Try it with an AI assistant
Paste one of these into ChatGPT, Claude, or your assistant of choice:
“Draft an MOU for two nonprofits exploring a joint grant application.”
“Mark which sections are binding vs non-binding.”
“Convert MOU goals into a checklist for the full contract.”
Why teams start with Docracy
“Docracy is a great product that I have tested and am using. It is easy to use, has good tools, is always up to date, and implements new features. Highly recommended.”— DACH Advisory
Free for up to 2 signers, no account required. Need unlimited? Flat $10/month.