What does “non-commercial use” mean in software license agreements?

As you pointed out, many software license agreements fail to describe what falls under non-commerical use. For many years this has actually been a grey area in the IP world and the non-profit heavyweight Creative Commons released a 255-page reporton the issue in 2009 to address it. The report listed 9 “Qualitative Research Consideration Factors” to consider when analyzing non-commercial use:

• Perceived economic value of the content
• The status of the user as an individual, an amateur or professional, a for-profit or not-for-profit organization, etc.
• Whether the use makes money (and if so, whether revenues are profit or recovery of costs
  associated with use)
• Whether the use generates promotional value for the creator or the user
• Whether the use is personal or private
• Whether the use is for a charitable purpose or other social or public good
• Whether the use is supported by advertising or not
• Whether the content is used in part or in whole
• Whether the use has an impact on the market or is by a competitor

As you can see there are a bunch of things to consider. When an area of law is so uncertain, it’s always wise to talk to an attorney. You should take a look at LawTrades, a legal platform designed for small businesses and startups. I think we’d be a good fit to help you out as our lawyers offer affordable, flat-fee pricing on contract reviews. Feel free to message me with any questions as well!