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Turning Innovation Into Enterprise

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Intellectual Property Seminars with the US Patent and Trademark Office April 26 – May 17, 2022

April 26, 2022 - 05/17/2022

TheBEST in West Virginiaprogram, presented by TechConnect West Virginia and the West Virginia Small Business Development Center is celebrating World IP Day by partnering with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office to present a series of seminars in April and May 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 26 World Intellectual Property Day! USPTO: World IP Day | USPTO

Time: 10:00 am

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: May 3

Time: 10:00 am

Registration: No fee, but registration is required; click here

 

Trademark Basics with an Overview of Copyright 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: May 10

Time: 10:00 am

Registration: No fee, but registration is required; click here

 

U.S. PTO and WVU 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. West Virginia University resources will also be presented by WVU Patent and Trademark Librarian Marian Armour-Gemmen.

Date: May 17

Time: 10:00 am

Registration: No fee, but registration is required; click here