PROTECTING YOUR INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
Every innovation begins with an idea, a creation of your mind. Before you commit to bringing that idea to fruition, it is essential to understand the importance and your options from the legal standpoint. Your innovation is known as Intellectual property (IP), a potentially valuable intangible asset that should be protected to differentiate your product or service in the marketplace and to help you stand out from the competition.
If you own or are starting a technology-focused company developing new products or services, you should be aware that one of your valuable business assets is IP rights. Those rights need to be protected.
How to Protect your IP
IP includes copyrights, which cover works of authorship, such as books, logos, and software. It also includes patents, which protect inventions. Other types of IP include trademarks, designs, and trade secrets. Click on Intellectual Property: What You Need to Know for the details.
Assuming you are satisfied with your investigation as to the worthiness of a business idea, you should undertake an analysis of the type of intellectual properties that apply to your situation, and act to safeguard your intellectual property in the United States (or worldwide if appropriate). An attorney experienced in the specific type of intellectual property can assist with this process.
How VtSBDC can help
VtSBDC’s advising team is here to help you through the process with specific expertise from Scott Holson, a business advisor who specializes in Innovation and Technology Commercialization. Scott’s knowledge and experience in Intellectual property and tech commercialization provide insight and guidance for innovators, technology-driven entrepreneurs, and tech startups.
With Scott’s help, you can learn how to evaluate the worthiness of an idea, as well as navigate the intellectual property process before you engage an attorney or prepare your innovation for launch.
At VtSBDC, count on us to meet you where you are and to help you get where you want to go.
How to Start
Before arranging a meeting with Scott Holson, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the IP landscape. Educational resources included here are a:
