There are a lot of available resources, and listed here are people and organizations that I know personally and/or have used myself.
| Inventor Resources: Education, Staying Current & Connected | |
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InventRightHow would you like a wealth of information about inventing, for free? InventRight offers webinars, Blog Talk Radio Shows, interviews with well know people (i.e. Jack Canfield, Steve Wozniak), an informative blog and more. Definitely sign up for their newsletter to stay current on opportunities for inventors, http://www.inventright.com/lindap.shtml. These guys rock! And if you are interested in their Step-By-Step Program for Licensing Your Ideas, I know it works. Their program is easy to understand, and to do, and it is the best blend of simplicity and practical advice that I’ve ever encountered regarding bringing a product to market (click here to view their program). |
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United States Patent And Trademark Office (USPTO)The United States Patent and Trademark Office has an Inventor's Assistance Center (IAC) that provides patent information and services to the public. The IAC is staffed by former Supervisory Patent Examiners and experienced Primary Examiners who answer general questions concerning patent examining policy and procedure, and they can assist you with filling out forms. The USPTO also has a list of Inventor Organizations around the country; for the most current list, do a site search for "Inventor Organizations". |
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Minnesota Inventor's Congress (M.I.C.) – Deb HessExecutive Director, Deb Hess, is a go-to gal when you are looking for resources. Both she, and Stephen Key of InventRight, seem to not only know everybody in this industry, but they both also know a wide-range of service providers, where the upcoming events are and more. In addition to planning the MIC Expo every June, Deb's calendar always seems to be full of workshops where she is presenting information to entrepreneurs, investors, attorneys, young inventors, etc. Get on her email list of upcoming workshops, especially if you are located in the northern Midwestern states. |
| The Patent Process: Attorneys, Agents & Illustrators Finding a Patent Agent or Attorney who is a good match for you is an important part of the inventing process (believe me, I've interviewed several and worked with quite a few myself). You can find a list of Patent Agents and Attorneys through the USPTO, or you can ask others for referrals. To find a Patent Illustrator, your Attorney or Agent will probably have someone that they work with, or you can use mine. |
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Patent Attorney – Antonio PapageorgiouA colleague recommended Antonio for my projects and he has been a good fit for my style, plus he has worked out well for others that I have have recommend to him. Please let Antonio know that you found him through me. |
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Patent Agent – Don KellyIf you are looking for a Patent Agent, why not hire someone who used to work at the Patent Office? Don has a lot of patent experience and knows his way through the process.http://www.patentagentplus.com/patentagent.htm
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Patent Illustrator – Jack SmithJack has a very unique set of skills that make him highly effective as a Patent Illustrator. Not only does he posses artistic talents as an Illustrator, but he also is a paralegal (which means he can write a large portion of a patent), is actively involved in the leadership of Inventors' Network and stays current in the industry. |
| Business Resources There are many resources available to help you with the business-side of inventing. Some great places to start include: • SBA (Small Business Administration) • SBDC (Small Business Development Center) • SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) • Local resources: Universities, Community Education Classes, Chamber of Commerce |
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Business Plan
The One Page Business Plan is the ultimate simplified business plan. Developed by Jim Horan, this amazing tool has changed the way many companies chart their course to success. Not only is the One Page Business Plan easy to write, it is also the most effective way I have ever seen a company convey its Vision, Mission, Objectives, Strategies and Plan all in a concise manner that people actually use. |
| Self-Publishing Resources | |
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Publishing – BooksIf you’ve ever considered writing a book, check out Dan Poynter’s materials before you commit even one word to paper. Even though Dan is known as the Self-Publishing Guru, his practical advise applies to all authors. His Book Model is invaluable.http://www.parapublishing.com |
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Publishing – BookletsPerhaps writing a book is beyond what you are willing to do in this moment but you still have valuable information to share with others. A booklet is a great mechanism for communicating your message, establishing credibility and making money. Paulette Ensign has greatly simplified the booklet writing and marketing process and shares her wisdom through her company Tips Products International. |
