As part of the “BEST in West Virginia” program, presented by TechConnect West Virginia and the West Virginia Small Business Development Center, we are pleased to partner with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office on a series of seminars in April on intellectual property:
Intellectual Property 101
Unfamiliar with patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets? Learn about intellectual property (IP) basics and potential ways to protect your innovations as you transition from idea to product. The session will cover:
- What is the USPTO?
- An overview of intellectual property types: patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets
- Why innovators and entrepreneurs should consider protecting their IP
- How to get started in protecting your intellectual property.
Date: April 5
Time: 1:00 pm
U.S. PTO Resources for Inventors, Innovators & Entrepreneurs
The USPTO has a wealth of resources for individuals interested in learning more about protecting their intellectual property and who need assistance doing so. Learn about these various resources, many of which are free, and put them to work for you as you begin or continue down your path of innovation. The session will also include a focus on the USPTO’s COVID-19 relief and assistance efforts.
Date: April 12
Time: 1:00 pm
Registration: No fee, but registration is required; click here.
Patent Basics
This module will cover the basic facts about patents. We will explore the different types of patents, including utility, design, and plant. We will define the difference and use of both provisional patent applications and non-provisional patent applications. Further, we will discuss the process of patent prosecution, the role of the U.S. patent examiner and what to expect when working with the USPTO. Information regarding a number of patent prosecution programs and initiatives available to applicants will also be provided.
Date: April 19
Time: 1:00 pm
Registration: No fee, but registration is required; click here.
Trademark Basics
This module will cover the basic facts about trademarks. We will explore the different types of trademarks, including names, designs, logos, and trade dress. We will discuss strategies to perform a trademark search, strengthen descriptive marks, and layout the steps to file a trademark application and all fees associated with trademarks.
Date: April 26 – World Intellectual Property Day!
Time: 1:00 pm
Registration: No fee, but registration is required; click here. |