What should every startup founder know about intellectual property law?
Most startup founders understand that intellectual property (IP) is important for their business, but understanding exactly what matters and what to do about it can be confusing. This article provides an overview of IP law for startup founders. It covers different types of IPs, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets and open source licenses, and…
How do I protect my startup idea?
If you have a startup idea, it’s natural to want to protect it from copycats and competitors. While not all ideas are patentable, there are still steps you can take to safeguard your intellectual property and maintain your competitive edge in the marketplace. In this post, we’ll discuss some of the most effective ways to…
How do copyrights, trademarks, patents and trade secrets differ?
It can be challenging to keep intellectual property straight. This article provides an overview for startup founders and operators about the differences between copyrights, trademarks, patents and trade secrets — all forms of intellectual property that provide legal protection to creators and innovators. We will define each type of intellectual property and explore the types…
Should my startup file a copyright?
For startups that have created unique products or services, filing for a copyright may be important to protect their intellectual property from unauthorized use or reproduction by competitors. This article covers the basics of copyright law, including how it works, examples of copyright-protected content, duration of protection and benefits of filing for a copyright. It…
What is copyright infringement, and how does it impact my startup?
In the digital age, copyright infringement has become a common problem that can have serious legal and reputational consequences for startups. This article provides an overview of copyright infringement, including what it is, its consequences and how to avoid it. It covers how to respond if you infringe on someone else’s material, as well as…
How does a trademark protect my startup?
A trademark is a crucial aspect of any startup’s brand identity. It provides legal protection, establishes brand recognition and can increase the overall value of your business. However, it’s important to understand what a trademark is, and how it can protect your startup. In this article, we’ll explain what a trademark is, its benefits, how…
How do I file a patent for my startup? Is it worth it?
Most startup founders consider whether a patent is right for them. Is the investment of time and money worth it in the end? This article provides an overview of how to file a patent for a startup, including the benefits of filing a patent, the different types of patents available, the steps involved in filing…
What are trade secrets, and why do they matter to startups?
Trade secrets are a form of intellectual property protection that can give a business a competitive advantage by providing unique insights or processes that others in the industry don’t have. The article discusses the legal protections available for trade secrets and the consequences of not protecting them. It also explores the impact of technology on…
My startup has limited resources. How should I prioritize protecting intellectual property?
For startups with limited resources, protecting intellectual property (IP) can be a challenging task. However, safeguarding IP is crucial to ensuring the long-term success of a company. Developing a comprehensive IP strategy that aligns with a company’s goals, resources, and industry is essential to protecting innovative ideas and staying ahead of the competition. Consulting with…
Who owns what? Invention Assignment
If you don’t fully understand whether an individual or the company owns specific intellectual property (IP), then you need to resolve the conclusion as soon as possible. This article discusses the importance of IP ownership for startups. As you’ll see below, much of the value of the company is dependent upon this single question. Generally,…
