Whether it's a unique invention, a custom logo, or a branded tagline, you may have intellectual property (IP) you need to protect as a small business owner.

Join us for our 4-part training series with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to learn about the various kinds of IP out there, how you can protect what is yours, and how to safeguard your business success.

Session dates and times:

• Session 1 (Wed. 07/09th | 12 PM - 1 PM): Intellectual Property Essentials
• Session 2 (Wed. 07/16th | 12 PM - 1 PM): Intro to Patents and Business Considerations
• Session 3 (Wed. 07/23rd | 12 PM - 1 PM): Intro to Trademarks
• Session 4 (Wed. 07/30th | 12 PM - 1 PM): Q&A & USPTO Resources

Find more info on each session topic down below in our Session Breakdown! Can't make a session? Each session will be recorded and made available to those whose register.

This training series will be hosted online via video conference. Once you register, you will be sent a link to the individual webinars.

For more information on this training, contact the Center at 208.732.6450 or email IdahoSBDC@csi.edu.

Invent, Protect, & Grow Session Breakdown

Session 1: Intellectual Property Essentials | Wednesday, July 9th | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Join us for a discussion about what all small business owners should know about intellectual property (IP) basics. We’ll discuss how to identify the different types of IP and why it’s essential for entrepreneurs to understand the impact of IP on their business.

• What is Intellectual Property (IP)
• Overview of patents, trademarks, trade secrets and copyright
• Key considerations in identifying what type of IP you need
• The importance of establishing IP in a business

Session 2: Intro to Patents and Business Considerations | Wednesday, July 16th | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Join Rocky Mountain Regional Director, Molly Kocialski, for a discussion on patents, including the different types of patents, the application process, what to do after a patent is granted (or not granted), the rights of patent owners, and other business considerations.

• What is a patent?
• Types of patents
• The patent application process
• I got my patent … now what? Post-grant requirements and considerations
• Business resources

Session 3: Intro to Trademarks| Wednesday, July 23rd | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Join us for a discussion about what trademarks are, the benefits of federal trademark registration, and the basics of the registration process. We’ll also talk about why it’s crucial for any business owner to select a trademark that is both federally registrable and legally protectable.

• Difference between TM, SM, and ®
• Importance of selecting a strong trademark
• Importance of conducting a clearance searching before filing
• Fundamentals of the federal trademark application requirements
• How to find free and reduced-price legal services

Session 4: Q&A & USPTO Resources | Wednesday, July 30th | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Rocky Mountain Assistant Regional Director David Le will provide a quick review of the USPTO and types of IP, discuss resources available to the Public, and dedicate time to audience Q&A.

• Review of all types of intellectual property
• IP Identifier
• Search resources
• Pro Se Assistance
• Other types of resources