[rexreed]

Three words: trust, Non-disclosures, and contracts. And work with a US firm or firm in another jurisdiction where you know that the force of law (and the power of the lawsuit) is much stronger if they violate any of the above three.

Of course, you know that it's very hard to truly protect an idea. This is why trust matters the most.

Oh, and don't be cheap. Expect to pay a premium for keeping things quiet. If you play lowball cheapskate, don't be surprised if the other party at some point finds it more economically advantageous to run with your idea in ways you can't / won't.

So, pay well and trust few. Then cross your fingers.

And you're right when you say this will spawn conversation about stealthiness for startups. I have rarely seen stealth matter. But you probably already know this.