Representatives from the United States Patent and Trademark Office recently visited the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center at the University of Arkansas to meet with a client group of entrepreneurs and innovators served by the Center. Jacob Choi, assistant regional director, and Jessica Eley, outreach coordinator, provided valuable training and guidance on the patent process and answered specific questions during a 1:1 session with each client.
Hosted by Catherine Corley, ASBTDC business and innovation consultant, the group included clients who have a patent, are in the process of applying for a patent, or have been declined a trademark request.
Key takeaways included:
- Develop an IP strategy – offensive or defensive.
- Know that claims at the end of the patent application are the “meat” of the application.
- Use an IP attorney due to all the “legalese”; ensure that they are experienced in technology and innovation.
- Use the training tools and events on the USPTO website (https://www.uspto.gov), especially PATH TO PATENT and TRADEMARK BASICS BOOT CAMP
For qualifying individuals, pro bono assistance from legal advisors is available: patents@slu.edu