Knowledge transfer
Knowledge transfer is the sharing of information, skills or expertise between people or organizations, such as when a business is sold, a technology is licensed or a key employee leaves. It is a general business term. Legally, it is managed through confidentiality, licence, assignment and transition services agreements.
How BC law treats it
In Canada, confidential knowledge is protected by contract and the action for breach of confidence, while patents, copyright and trademarks protect only specific forms of intellectual property under federal statutes.
What it means for your business
A BC business buying another business should secure transition support so key knowledge is not lost when sellers leave.
Risks and common mistakes
Allowing departing employees to take undocumented know-how without confidentiality obligations can leave the business with little protection.
For the full explanation, see our entry on Know-how licence.
General information about British Columbia and Canadian law, current to October 2026. It is not legal advice.
