Inventors: Connecting with the Right People

As an independent inventor, venturing off on your own in search of a patent can be quite a daunting journey.

Fortunately, there are a wealth of resources and professionals available to assist along the way.

USPTO Pro Se Assistance

Reaching out to the USPTO for assistance as a “pro se” inventor is a great place to start: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/basics/using-legal-services/pro-se-assistance-program

Local libraries

Your local public or university library can be a great resource for all things intellectual property-related

Patent Attorneys

Patent Attorneys and Patent Agents know the ins and outs of the legal process involved in patenting and are worth at least a consultation

Prior Art Searchers

Professional researchers — known as prior art searchers — are skilled at uncovering published patents, products, and documentation that could prevent you from being awarded a patent

Other Inventors

Reaching out to independent inventors that have gone through the process, regardless of whether having been granted a patent or not, can give you an idea of what expectations to have and lessons learned along the way

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Connecting with the right people along your journey can make all the difference.