Memorandum of understanding (MOU) template
A memorandum of understanding records how two organizations plan to work together — the shared goal, who does what, and how costs and questions are handled — without the formality of a full contract. Fill in the details below and it is laid out as a PDF with signature blocks for both organizations.
This template is a general starting point, not legal advice. Laws differ between countries and states, so have it checked before signing anything important.
Fill in the details
Anything you leave empty becomes a blank line in the document, to fill in by hand or during signing.
Opens the signature request with this document and a signature box for each party already placed.
Preview
Memorandum of Understanding
This Memorandum of Understanding (the "MOU") is made on __________ between __________, of __________, and __________, of __________ (each a "Party").
1. Purpose
The Parties intend to work together on __________ (the "Project"). This MOU records how they plan to do so.
2. Roles
__________ will __________.
__________ will __________.
3. Costs and Resources
Unless the Parties agree otherwise in writing, __________.
4. Communication
The main contacts for the Project are __________. They will talk or meet as needed to plan activities and resolve issues, and will try to settle any disagreement between them informally before involving others.
5. Confidentiality and Personal Information
Each Party will keep confidential any non-public information it receives from the other Party through the Project. Each Party will handle any personal information connected with the Project as the law requires and in line with its own privacy policies.
6. Names and Logos
Neither Party will use the other Party’s name or logo in publicity or promotional material without its prior approval, which may be given by email.
7. Nature of this MOU
This MOU is a statement of the Parties’ intentions. It does not create a partnership, joint venture or agency, and, except for sections 5 and 6, it is not legally binding. Either Party may withdraw from the Project by giving the other thirty (30) days’ written notice.
8. Term
This MOU starts on the date above and continues until __________, unless a Party withdraws earlier under section 7 or the Parties extend it in writing. Sections 5 and 6 continue for two (2) years after this MOU ends.
9. General
This MOU is governed by __________. It may only be changed in writing signed by both Parties. It may be signed in counterparts and with electronic signatures, each of which is treated as an original.
First organization
__________
Second organization
__________
When an MOU is the right document
An MOU suits a collaboration that runs on goodwill rather than enforcement: two nonprofits running a joint program, a school and a local business sharing resources, or two companies trying out a partnership. If money, exclusive rights or significant liability are involved, turn the MOU into a contract.
Make it useful
An MOU is only as helpful as it is specific.
- Write each organization’s role as concrete actions, not as general support.
- Agree who pays for what before the first activity.
- Name one contact person on each side.
- If either organization is a public body, check whether its board or council must approve the MOU before it is signed.
Frequently asked questions
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