A SaaS reseller agreement is a legally binding contract between a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) provider and a reseller. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions under which the reseller is authorized to market, sell, and distribute the SaaS provider’s products or services to end-users. A well-crafted agreement is crucial for both parties, ensuring clarity, mitigating risks, and fostering a successful business relationship.
Core Components of a SaaS Reseller Agreement
1. Definitions
Clearly define key terms used throughout the agreement. This section should include definitions for:
SaaS Provider: The company providing the software or service.
2. Grant of License and Scope of Resale
This section outlines the specific rights granted to the reseller. It should include:
Non-exclusive License: Typically, resellers are granted a non-exclusive license, meaning the SaaS provider can appoint other resellers.
3. Sales and Marketing
This section addresses the reseller’s responsibilities and obligations related to sales and marketing:
Sales Targets: If applicable, define any sales targets or quotas the reseller must meet.
4. Pricing and Payment
This section outlines the pricing structure, payment terms, and commission rates:
Pricing Model: Specify the pricing model for the resold products or services, such as per-user pricing, subscription fees, or one-time licenses.
5. Customer Support and Service
This section addresses customer support and service responsibilities:
Customer Support Obligations: Define the level of customer support the reseller is responsible for providing to end-users.
6. Intellectual Property
This section outlines the ownership and use of intellectual property:
Ownership: Clearly state that the SaaS provider retains all intellectual property rights in the software, technology, and other materials.
7. Term and Termination
This section addresses the term of the agreement and the conditions under which either party may terminate the agreement:
Term: Specify the initial term of the agreement and any renewal options.
8. Warranty and Disclaimer
This section outlines the warranties and disclaimers related to the resold products or services:
Warranties: Disclaim any warranties, express or implied, regarding the resold products or services, except for any limited warranties provided by the SaaS provider.
9. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution
This section specifies the governing law and dispute resolution procedures:
Governing Law: Specify the jurisdiction whose laws will govern the agreement.
10. Representations and Warranties
This section includes representations and warranties made by each party regarding their authority, solvency, and compliance with applicable laws.
11. Entire Agreement
This clause states that the agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior or contemporaneous communications or agreements.
12. Severability
This clause provides that if any provision of the agreement is held to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
13. Notices
This section specifies the procedure for providing notices and other communications under the agreement.
14. Assignment
This section addresses the restrictions on assigning the agreement to a third party.
Design Considerations for Professionalism and Trust
Clear and Concise Language: Use clear, concise, and easy-to-understand language, avoiding legal jargon whenever possible.
By carefully considering these elements and incorporating them into your SaaS reseller agreement template, you can create a professional, legally sound, and mutually beneficial agreement for both the SaaS provider and the reseller.