MIPO
Oregon's Non-Profit
Inventors Business Center
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Take Your Napkin Idea to a New Level!
Micro-Enterprise Inventors Program of Oregon (MIPO) is a non-profit organization in Oregon made possible by funding and support through the Lemelson Foundation.
MIPO provides inventors, innovators, entrepreneurs and businesses the resources, training, consulting and connections that focus on protecting, protototyping, and funding inventions. We provide support in all aspects of innovations with a focus in consumer, health care, and green technology products.
Upcoming Events
June 26th 2010 The Licensing Track 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
July 1st, 2010 NW Inventors Group 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
July 10th 2010 Negotiating a Deal Part I 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Blog
Upcoming Cool Stuff
- Meyer to award 1 Million dollars for best idea out of Oregon
- Discovery Channel Canada is looking for inventions to showcase
- Boogie Wipes will be a presenter at the I20 program this August
503-961-8489
5257 NE MLK suite 201 Portland OR 97202
At MIPO we work outside of the box drawing on training, resources, and consulting that offers innovators, inventors, entrepreneurs, and small businesses the opportunity to cultivate innovative ideas in the face of changing markets, new technologies, and increased consumer demand.
The process of innovation can be easily distinguished from the process of inventing. In most cases an invention is the conversion of cash into a proposed idea. Too often in our line of work we listen to inventors that have spent thousands of dollars in an idea without any return on investment.
Innovation on the other hand is the conversion of a proposed idea into cash. Innovators profit from their innovations through licensing or sales. The primary difference is in the evaluation, planning and launch of the idea.
At MIPO we drive innovation with key objectives:
* We utilize an assessment tool to evaluate the idea
* We qualify which ideas should move forward
* We review the market landscape and competitive positioning
* We developing a course of action to bring the idea to the market
* We leverage resources and funding options to mitigate your risk.
INNOVATE
EVALUATE
Start the MIPO Process with 3 Quick Steps!
1. CONTACT US for the MIPO application form. Complete the application, and submit it. Please include as much information as possible.
2. We will send you the non-disclosure agreement. After you have submitted your application and any pertinent documents, the MIPO team will review your information and contact you to schedule a complimentary information finding interview to determine your needs and review your project.
3. MIPO Membership Program: The annual membership program was developed to encourage sponsorship and continued use of MIPO services.
BENEFITS
The $ 195 Individual Membership provides the following services:
• Free phone consultations to support your idea
* Free email consultations to support your idea
* Complimentary monthly resource newsletter
* Sessions to discuss the progress toward meeting goals and to set new
goals for the coming months. These meetings usually occur six
months and one year after a client becomes a member.
•A quarterly newsletter
•An Internet bartering marketplace
•Low cost patentability assessments. MIPO members receive low-cost comprehensive feasibility assessments on new ideas.
EIGHT STEPS TO PLANNING YOUR INVENTION SUCCESS
Starting the invention process can be exciting and daunting at the same time. At MIPO we have streamlined the process to support your goals.
IDEA REVIEW
MIPO's idea review provides inventors and innovators an opportunity to get their invention critiqued by experts that review the viability of patent protection and market opportunity. As part of this critique, inventors have the opportunity to work one-on-one to review prior art, marketability potential, potential resources, and create an action plan.
PROTOTYPE
Many inventors approach MIPO with a "napkin idea" of an invention. Our team of vetted engineers can consult with you the design, with an eye towards manufacturing options and material selection for prototype and production.
PATENT SEARCH
A patent search is a necessary part of preparing for the consideration of a patent application. Clients work with an approved patent search firm to provide a comprehensive analysis of the prior art in the proposed industries and prepare a patentability opinion report on the viability of the potential invention being considered for patent protection.
BUSINESS PLANNING
The most effective way to raise necessary funds and minimize cost is to develop a Business Plan that details your busines strategy for bringing your invention to the marketplance.
PATENT SERVICES
MIPO Patent Services Referral Program provides inventors with affordable patent support for the protection of their invention. Through aligned partnerships with patent attorneys, patent agents, and legal firms, MIPO has assisted clients with the application process for a provisional patent, non-provisional or utility patent, and a design patent.
MARKETING REPORT
A comprehensive industry analysis review requires an inventor to take an objective view of the assumptions, projections, and future trends that may determine the viability of an industry ability to meet the projected sales projections. Our program provides the opportunity to initiate primary and secondary research methodologies that can assist in bringing validation to the potential opportunities in the marketplace
BRANDING YOUR INVENTION
Branding plays an important role in building a presence for your product. It entails identifying and selecting the media that can provide the greatest amount of exposure for your invention and develop effective materials for each medium. MIPO has worked with clients to develop sales sheets, business cards, websites, and social media strategies to strengthen their opportunity in the marketplace.
BETA TESTING THE PRODUCT
Placing time and effort into beta testing a product can play a significant role in the success of future sales for any product. MIPO has provided a supportive rote for beta testing products in the marketplace. This has include initiating client surveys, formulating focus groups, attending trade shows, and interview experts in targeted sectors.
SIX FUNDING OPTIONS TO CONSIDER IN A PRODUCT LAUNCH
AMATEUR FINANCING
Most inventors begin their launch with their own financing which may include friends and family or credit card support. This is generally not the best avenue for financing your launch.
DEBT FINANCING
This is the traditional Bank loans that ususally require collateral with hard assets attached, good credit, and a business plan. Most inventors utilizing bank loans as a long term strategy to their business.
EQUITY FINANCING
Often called Individual Investors (Angels) or Institutional Investors (Venture Capital Companies) these investors focus on a high growth
rate with a projected time frame. A very competitive strategy that provides infusoin of funds for an equity position in the business.
TRADE FINANCING
The use of a bartering assocation to support the necessary components to launcing a prodcut into the market. In the past clients have bartered for prototype support, market reports, business plans, and even patent services.
GRANT FINANCING
The opportuniity to recieve funds towards your invention without a requirement to repay the funds. The most advantageous program is the Small Business Innovation Research program that provides funds of up to $ 100,000 for the research and development of a product.
LICENSING
By far the most popular route for most inventors seeking an opportunity to bring their product to the market with minimal cost involved.
The ideal scenario most inventors dream of is developing an invention that will be licensed to a company and obtain royalties as a result. Licensing is the contractual agreement that provides a marketing company the opportunity to produce and sell the inventors invention for either a one time fee or ongoing payments (also known as a royalties)
SIX STEPS TO LICENSING YOUR INVENTION
1. Making a prototype of your invention. When manufacturing companies are approached with a new product idea by an inventor, they prefer to have a working model or sample design available to review.
2. Develop a marketing plan geared at manufacturing companies.
Preparing a marketing plan shows a potential 'licensee' (the manufacturing or marketing company) that the 'licensor' (inventor) has put some serious thought in the future success of the invention.
3. Product testing the invention with consumers.
Bringing the invention to a product testing consumer phase allows you to determine the validity of the market allowing consumers to experience and provide feedback on the invention.
4. Branding the invention for licensing opportunities
All manufactures prefer to see the invention in action to allow for full understanding of the concept. Branding provides key materials so manufacturers can view the marketing potential.
5. Locating the Manufacturing or Marketing Companies
Targeting manufacturers that are open to listening or reviewing a potential licensing deal and contacting them for a review.
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6. Negotiating an Equitable Licensing Deal.
Being at the end of a licensing deal is one of the most rewarding events for an inventor but it does require a through understanding of licensing contracts, licensing options, and negotiation tactics.
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WELCOME TO MIPO
Why Volunteer?
Volunteering offers many benefits...
Here are some reasons to volunteer:
Learn or develop a new skill.
Volunteering is the perfect conduit to develop a new skill or to discover a new talent. It is never too late to realize new skills or accumulate knowledge. Employers are often seeking well-rounded individuals who have good teamwork and goal setting skills. Planning and implementing a major fundraising event can develop goal setting, planning and budgeting skills. Serving on a volunteer committee or board is a great way to learn group dynamics and team work. Serving as a committee chair increases facilitation skills. Painting a mural or making banners could highlight your art talents. The possibilities are endless.
Be part of your community.
There are so many options for being involved in your community, through professional associations, neighborhood organizations, arts and historic organizations and social service organizations. No man or woman is an island. People and societies co-depend on each other for survival. We can bridge the expanding gap between communities and societies through volunteering. Volunteering is ultimately about helping others taking part in impacting people's welfare and happiness. What better way is there to connect with your community and give something back? Do you feel strongly about something that is happening or not happening in your community and want to get involved? As a volunteer, you certainly return to society some of the benefits that society gives you.
Meet a diverse range of people.
Volunteering brings together a diverse range of people varied backgrounds. Both the recipients of your volunteer efforts and your fellow volunteers can be a valuable source of inspiration and an exceptional method to expand your interpersonal skills. You do not know who you will meet, what new information you will acquire, and how this could impact your life.
Receive personal rewards and sense of achievement.
Volunteering is about donating your time, energy, and skills generously. As a volunteer you have made a decision to help freely -- free from pressure to act from others. Volunteers generally convey a sense of achievement and motivation which ultimately is generated from the desire and enthusiasm to help. For others volunteering may simply be a break in regular routine or an opportunity to create balance in their lives. Volunteering around a personal interest or hobby can be enjoyable, relaxing, and revitalizing. That energy and sense of fulfillment can even be carried over to other situations and sometimes help to relieve tensions and foster new perspectives for old situations.
Create Leadership.
Watching those around you can allow you to identify leadership qualities that you most appreciate and can develop in yourself. Volunteer groups are often groups of peers that respond more to leadership than management. Opportunities are available to lead by persuasion, show innovation, and share your ideas and values. Volunteer settings allow you to learn strategic thinking and conflict resolution skills. You will learn about your community, about trends and concerns, about people and about resources--all of which can help you develop your leadership potential.
Enhance Career Opportunities.
Networking - Volunteering offers an incredible networking opportunity. You will develop lasting personal and professional relationships. Not only is it a great way to learn about people from all walks of life, different environments, and new industries, but you can also hear about job openings, gather valuable employment information and develop great references.
Retain or sharpen old skills - Sometimes job duties change and you may no longer be doing things you used to do and liked. Volunteering is a perfect means for keeping those skills sharp and current.
Practice skills - It is much more effective to practice a new skill than to read about it or study it in a classroom. Volunteering is an excellent venue to experiment, practice, and test new techniques and skills. The opportunity to build your self-confidence through practice is offered. Additionally, volunteering provides opportunities to observe others to determine best practices.
Explore new career options - Volunteering is a perfect way to explore new fields. Sometimes a volunteer experience can direct you to something you never thought about or help you uncover a new skill or interest. You can strengthen your personal/professional mission and vision by exploring opportunities and expanding your horizons. --Ten Professional Development Benefits of Volunteering (Everything I Learned in Life I Learned through Volunteering.) Mary V. Merrill, LSW, Merrill Associates
Why Volunteer At MIPO?
Would you like to be apart of something new, and developing over time? We support inventors with their inventions in the process of being a final product, and thriving in the market or on-line. Whether you volunteer in the front office as an Administrative Assistant: or behind the scene as a Technical Writer. Its all important to our clients and to MIPO. We are a small non-profit. Our office is not huge but the growth we see is. Whether you want to expand your skills or learn new ones. You will gain a sense of achievement by being apart of making a clients dream come true
Available Volunteer Opportunities continued on the next mini page
Available Volunteer Opportunites
Administrative Assistant - Provide high-level administrative support by conducting research, preparing reports, handling information requests, and performing clerical functions such as preparing correspondence, receiving visitors, arranging conference calls, and scheduling meetings.
Duties:
o Enter client data in office database
o Answering phone calls for the office/taking messages/transferring calls, and greeting clients.
o Updating any changes to the website.
o Also a willingness to accept additional responsibilities as needed.
Requirements:
o A High School diploma or equivalent or at least 6 months administrative assistant experience or Education in Related field
o Professional appearance, dress and demeanor
o Ability to be comfortable on the phone
o Strong background in customer service
o Ability to be creative and obtain necessary data
o Thorough knowledge of all programs and how they interface
o Ability to be patient with clients we serve
o Understanding of Word, Excel, Database
o Type 30+wpm
Office Support - Answer inquiries and obtain information for general public, customers, visitors, and other interested parties. Provide information regarding activities conducted at establishment; location of departments, offices, and employees within organization.
o Fax, file documents, scan, and copying
o Creating folders for each client and creating office forms.
o Maintaining files and processing paperwork
o Review files, records, and other documents to obtain information to respond to requests
o A High School diploma or equivalent
o On the job training
o Ability to take initiative
o Good communication skills
o Basic computer skills helpful
Volunteer Coordinator
Summary of position: Recruit, train, and orient new volunteers, work directly with volunteer staff to provide guidance, direction, and support in coordination with management, and helping the organization to reach its volunteerism and organizational goals, while furthering the mission of MIPO.
oComfortable one on one and in small groups of people.
o1 year in related professional work or volunteer experience.
oGood writing and presentation skills.
oKnowledge in working with Microsoft Word.
oAbility to take ownership of projects.
oAbility to handle multiple projects at once.
oOptimistic, energetic and passionate
oProfessional appearance, dress and demeanor
Duration of Commitment: Three months
Days +Hours: Flexible
Reports to: Kedma Ough
Database Management - The development and design of database strategies, monitoring and improving database performance, capacity, planning for future expansion requirements. May also plan, co-ordinate and implement security measures to safeguard the database.
o Coordinate changes to computer databases, test and implement the database applying knowledge of database management systems.
o Test programs or databases, correct errors and make necessary modifications
o Plan, coordinate and implement security measures to safeguard information in computer files against accidental or unauthorized damage, modification or disclosure.
o Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in computer science, business administration, or related field.
o A minimum of 3 years professional programming, database design and administration experience.
o Related experience may be substituted for the degree requirement on a year for year basis.
Web Design Creates and manipulates existing and original graphic design elements on company web site using design program.
o Ensure that website is user-friendly and interactive.
o Coordinate the development of web content/applications and ensure ongoing updates and revisions
o Assure appropriate approvals for content and design
o Respond to queries received via the web
o Frequent updates and post to company website
o Develop new web applications as needed
o Bachelor's degree, preferably in computer science or related field
o Ability to create and build a website/web application from ground up. This will be a collaborative effort; you must be self-motivated and able to produce and deliver an entire project.
o Must possess excellent design and conceptual skills in combination with an in-depth knowledge of the technology and software applications used to create web pages.
o Strong background in Web Design
Prototype Development The Prototype Developer is responsible for the design, development and cost estimation of new products. He or she will manage Prototype Development projects from definition stages through production release. The project scope would generally be of an intermediate and advanced nature. The Prototype Developer will interface with clients for design reviews and product development.
o Develop unique ideas, variations and enhancements for client prototype.
o Prepare technical reports based on research, and recommend design modifications as indicated by test and usage.
o Make product recommendations and specifications based on interpretation of analytical and test results.
o Evaluate multiple design concepts and recommend the optimal solution for function, manufacturability and cost.
o Follow problem solving methodologies that will hold up to client and company review.
o Create product designs using 3D CAD Modeling Software that can be readily modified by others.
o Create 2D detailed drawings that clearly communicate product and component requirements to others.
o Consistently suggest ideas that can be achieved by the client without compromising product function.
o Communicate test and analytical results to other people verbally, through test reports or presentations so the results can be understood clearly.
o Travel to and collaborate with suppliers to optimize product function, manufacturing feasibility and cost objectives.
o Work with model makers and vendors to build prototypes for testing ideas, photography and vendor samples.
o Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering
o New product design experience
o Advanced knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and cable or assembly design principles such that design choices and technical guidance can be occasionally provided to others.
Business Consulting -They provide analysis of a clients existing practices and recommendations for how to improve their success.
o Initial meeting with client to discuss clients situation
o Prepare a plan of action to support the client through counseling, training, or support group interaction
o Assist clients in obtaining information to support their business
o Strong background in business plan development and financial review
o Strong communication skills and organizational skills
o Ability to consult with client in a variety of industries
o Experience working in a customer service or small business setting
Patent Review - Examines patent applications and determine whether or not a patent can be granted for various new inventions.
o Assist with new product development in identification and protection of intellectual property
o Identify patentable design features and work with legal council to secure intellectual property rights.
o Initiate and interpret patentability searches
o Prepare analyses of patents in regard to infringement and validity
o Review patent applications to determine if they comply with basic format, rules and legal requirements;
o Determine the scope of the invention claimed by the inventor;
o Search for relevant technologies to compare similar prior inventions with the invention claimed in the patent application; and communicating findings as to the patentability of an applicant's invention with communication to clients and MIPO.
o Previous patent examining or patent searching experience preferred
o Proven excellent collaboration, written and verbal communication skills
Licensing Review Examine, evaluate, and investigate eligibility for, conformity with, or liability under licenses.
o Investigative/compliance experience which includes conducting fact finding, interpreting technical and professional records, and applying investigative principals and methods
o Doing administrative research that includes compiling and evaluating facts to recommend director action; or deciding compliance or eligibility with program statutes, rules and policies and other state statutes, rules and regulations
o A Bachelor's Degree in Business or Public Administration
o Experience or education equivalent to five years of experience that supports the knowledge and skill requirements listed for the classification.
Fundraising - Lead the design, development, and implementation of a fundraising program to meet annual financial and operational targets. Manage, evaluate, and improve annual fundraising events and campaigns. Cultivate donor relations and maintain the donor database. Research funding opportunities and develop grant proposals.
o Develop fundraising strategies and plans to achieve objectives which include short-term funding, along with major development
o Research grant opportunities, write grants, seek funding opportunities, and develop funding proposals.
o Manage donor database, donor relations, and donation processing.
Build partnerships with prospective and existing donors.
Identify the most appropriate grant makers and create a master list that identifies their area of interest, range of funding amounts, list of MIPO board members, etc.
Develop a yearly grant seeking calendar and build a comprehensive grant seeking schedule around a set of projects identified and approved by management and the Board of Directors.
Conduct activities to maintain relationships with private donors over time, for example: thank-you letters, regular mailings updating supporters on our programs, annual requests for support, etc.
oExperience with a proven track record of raising funds for a non-profit agency via multiple development methods.
oKnowledge of fundraising concepts, practices and procedures.
oOutstanding ability to conduct grant research, writing, and reporting.
oBA/BS in Marketing, Business Administration or related field preferred.
Marketing Support Determine the demand for products and services offered by company and its competitors and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the company's profits or share of the market while ensuring the company's clients are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
o Travel to tradeshows to support company product introductions and to learn about industry and product trends.
o Help identify, visit with and evaluate potential suppliers that are key to new product success.
o Consult with buying personnel to gain advice regarding the types of products or services expected to be in demand.
o Bachelor Degree in Business administration with an emphasis on marketing.
o Experience in Marketing
Legal Review Deals with the intellectual properties of certain inventions. Has a good understanding of drafting patent applications and prosecution.
o Will counsel internal clients on litigation strategy and risks
o Will work with company and business clients in the company to support proactive efforts to manage IP risks and strengthen IP rights and enforcement of those rights.
o Must have a good understanding of how company goals and operations (including services, products, clients and competitors) guide litigation strategy and advice.
o Drafting of documents to protect clients' claims to copyrights, trade marks, product design or invention.
o A J.D. Law Degree Specializing in Intellectual Property Laws
o Admission to practice before the US Patent and Trademark Office
o Admission to the Bar in Oregon
o Knowledge of Patent, Copyright, Intellectual Property Law
Media Relations/Public Relations - You will develop, execute and evaluate strategic media relations and communications plans that are aligned with MIPOS Purpose and Objectives. You will be responsible for all media relations activities and some special events coordination with a focus on new product and services launches and local market launches. The Media Relations Manager is a key company spokesperson handling media inquiries.
o Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to clients, the public, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
o Bachelor's Degree in communications or related field preferred.
o Be an exceptional media relations generalist who is strategic and creative with an ability to execute and deliver.
o Have an excellent grasp of new and emerging communications practices and approaches and find unique and distinctive ways to promote the company.
Technical Writing Write technical materials, such as Grant Proposals, Fundraising project proposals.
o Edit, standardize, or make changes to material prepared by other writers or establishment personnel.
o Review materials and recommend revisions or changes in scope, format and content.
o Organize material and complete writing assignment according to set standards regarding order, clarity, conciseness, style, and terminology.
o Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
o Review Request for Proposal to identify necessary information for proposal text and budget development.
o Bachelor Degree in Business Management or related field and a minimum of 1 year's direct experience in Proposals; or equivalent combination of education, training and experience
o Proven background working in the field of intellectual property licensing including: technology licensing, trade secrets, copyrights, and patents
Financial Access Direct financial activities, such as planning, procurement, and investments for all or part of an organization.
o Review and analyze new, proposed, or revised laws, regulations, policies, and procedures to interpret their meaning and determine their impact.
o Prepare reports, exhibits and other supporting schedules that detail the companys safety and soundness, compliance with laws and regulations, and recommended solutions to questionable financial conditions.
o Review balance sheets, operating income and expense accounts, and loan documentation to confirm institution assets and liabilities.
o B.A. or B.S. in Accounting or Finance required or significant equivalent work experience. CPA preferred.
o Experience and comfort working with sensitive & confidential information
o Exceptional ethics and judgment.
•Professional appearance, dress and demeanor
mipo student handbook
mipo volunteer handbook
volunteer application
Please copy and paste your application in the message box, thank you
You want resources??
Well we have compiled the largest list of resources on the Internet on our resource page!
Hundreds of sites to review and learn more about inventing.
We can't vouch for all the sites but we can promise you it will keep you busy and well informed.
Take a peak on what we have gathered for you
BOOKS
Magazines, Books and Softwares:
Books for Inventors
Engines of our Ingenuity - Radio Program Scripts by John H. Lienhard, Professor of M.E. U
FARM SHOW Magazine - A website and publication that focuses on latest new products and "made it myself" inventions born in farm workshops and features the world's first database of farm inventions
Inventors Digest- Print & online publication to educate & inspire independent & professional inventors.
Great Idea Gear.Com - Book and software site.
MIT Inventors Handbook On-line - On-line resource from idea to raising capital.
Baker Botts Technology Calendar A collection of current seminars and meetings of nonprofit organizations and technology-related companies.
Tradepub.com - Many (but not all) Trade Magazines for various industries and markets.
Posters & Prints of Famous Inventions & Inventors
Videos & DVD's of Famous Inventions & Inventors
Business
Starting A Business:
How to Get A Bar Code
Entrepreneur.com - One of the largest and most frequently visited small-business Web sites on the Internet, provides business owners with practical information, expert advice and answers from recognized business authorities.
One Stop Business Center - Provides you with information on city, county, state and federal regulations affecting your current or proposed business. Free "Getting Started Packet"-your roadmap to operating a business in Houston-are available by mail or in person to anyone opening or expanding a small business.
www.business.gov is a government site that tells everything you could want about starting a small business.
SCORE-Houston, Service Corps of Retired Executives is a nonprofit organization providing small business counseling and training. SCORE members are retired business men and women who volunteer their time to assist aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners. There are SCORE chapters in every state. National SCORE Office
score online this is SCORE Chapter 55, Seattle, WA, web site; it has all you want to know about starting your own business; all information is free but they do sell a disk with all the fill-in your own data templates you need for a business plan etc. It lists all SCORE chapter web sites but the three listed in Texas have little more than their meeting locations and times.
BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS TEAM
To start, run or expand a business successfully requires many skills. Experience has shown that having the right team members can be just as or even more critical than having the right product or technology.
http://www.slcc.edu/slsbdc/resources.asp#BusinessFeasibility
http://www.entrepreneur.com/growyourbusiness/howtoguides/article83618.html
Specialties and Sources for Components:
Thomas Register Search ThomasNet,the most comprehensive resource for industrial information. Go straight to the source of product, company information, CAD drawings and more...
www.scientificsonline.com Edmund Scientific - Anything to do with science, exploration and nature - strange gadgets, unusual lighting, and unique techie toys - telescopes - microscopes - optical instruments - binoculars - spotting scopes - magnifiers - science kits - components - robots - chemistry labs, unique tools, balances and scales, and more. Product line covers physics and electronics, magnetics and magnetism, solar energy and technology.
American Science & Surplus A unique mix of industrial, military and educational items, with an emphasis on science and education. A wide range of unusual and hard to find items (some bizarre stuff) for the hobbyist, inventor, tinkerer, artist, experimenter, home educator, do-it-yourselfer, and bargain hunter. Good items for prototypes, models, and innumerable science projects.
Business Tools & Programs:
Business Card Template Guiding template for creating business card layout.
Company Letterhead Guiding template for creating a Company Letterhead,
i3 Mentoring Program Illinois Innovators & Inventors purpose is to encourage the interchange of useful information such as how to protect your ideas and how to bring your ideas to market.
Start Up Biz Website providing useful information for startup businesses.
Free Downloads:
Inventors Handouts - Oklahoma Inventor Assistance downloadable handouts.
Inventor Forms - Oklahoma Inventor Assistance downloadable forms.
Inventors Flow Chart - Flow chart to help with invention process.
Legal Sample Forms ** Use at your own risk**
Technology Legal Services - Online legal samples.
Copyrights, Trademarks and Trade Secrets:
Copyrights - World wide inventor resource for information.
Copyright Office Home page - Homepage of the Copyright Office.
Trademarks - World wide inventor resource for information.
Trade Secrets - World wide inventor resource for information.
Copyright and Trademarks Symbols - How To Create and Use Copyright Symbols
US Copyright Office -http://www.copyright.gov
Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts -http://www.vlany.org/
Publisher Groups
American Association of Publishers (AAP) www.publishers.org
Publishers Marketing Association (PMA)www.pma-online.org
Small Press Center (SPC) www.smallpress.org
Finance
Accounting & Finance Guiding Templates & Sample Documents
*Revenue & Expense Journal A spreadsheet to help track income & expenses of your product / idea development.
*Financial Calculator Spreadsheet to analyze financial information
*Proposal for Financing Document on how to create a financing proposal for your product.
*Investor Presentation Template Guiding template for making effective & impressive presentation to prospective investors.
Funding Your Invention
In the past inventing was considered too costly for most inventors. For one thing it is often quite expensive to protect an idea with a patent, build a final prototype, and test the market so that you have the optimum success for licensing or building a business.
While this steps are still a requirement for most inventors; the cost does not have to prevent people from inventing. At MIPO we are committed to find ways to support your idea to market in a more affordable manner.
Whether its through affordable classes or consulting with affordable consultant we are finding new ways of bridging the cost gap.
Still an inventor has to consider some funds in the inventing process.
The most common ways include:
1. Loans - Best used when assets are available
2. Investors - Best considered when there is high growth or historical data
3. Grants - Best considered when there is research and development costs
4. Contracts - Best considered if the product can be built around a business
5. Bartering - Best considered if the inventor can barter services or equity
FINDING FUNDING - WHERE AND HOW TO GET IT
Getting Funding For Your Invention
SBIR, STTR, SBA, ANGLES, VENTURE CAPITALIST, BANKS, GRANTS, LOANS and other sources of funding you should consider. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-3917305905328364625&q=utahinventor.org&total=25&start=10&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=4
MIT Inventors handbook
http://web.mit.edu/invent/h-main.html
http://www.grants.gov/
http://www.sbirworld.com/
http://www.eere.energy.gov/inventions/
WIN A CONTEST GET MONEY AND RECOGNITION
http://inventorspot.com/taxonomy/term/133/9
For more information on investment opportunities contact MIPO
Grants
YES! It is true - there are grants available to help with your invention. They are very competitive and often specific to an industry. At MIPO we work with each inventor to look at possible grants available to support their invention or business.
Each grant opportunity is vetted by our economic development team to make sure that the grant opportunity is a legitimate one and opportunities are available to the inventor.
Some of the grants MIPO assists in include:
1. IDA - Individual Development Account - a program that provides a 3 to 1 match for eligible inventors that are focused on building a business in Oregon. Funds can be used for product purchase, marketing, and education services
2. SBIR - a Federal grant program that provides funds to support research development for various stages of an invention.
SBIR Grant Information
Government Programs & Agencies
SATOP(Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program) provides up to 40 Hours of Free Technical Assistance from the NASA and Educational Community. SATOP has helped companies (and several of our members) with machine design, process engineering, materials selection and many other technical issues. Tell them your were referred by the Houston Inventors Association
Search Google Government Websites for Grants
Small Business Innovation Research Awards
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
*OSHA Publications
Argonne National Laboratory - One of DOE's largest research centers
National Science Foundation
Nasa JSC Technology Transfer
*Assist-Online The Official Source of DoD Specifications and Standards - It is an official government site that allows you to search by subject, document/mil-spec/mil-std number and allows you to view the full document.
Inventors
UNDERSTANDING AND DEFINING YOUR INVENTION (What can you claim and what can't you claim legally. Understanding what it's true worth and it's place in the IP landscape)
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-6283176705322498186&q=utahinventor.org&total=25&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=9
Marketing
Dreams to Market A free resource tool and open venture directory to help you develop and commercialize your ideas and dreams. They match your ideas, innovations, and technologies with companies and entrepreneurs that are seeking new products and innovative solutions.
Packaging World wide inventor resource for information.
Marketing Example Weight lifting invention commercialization, marketing, and licensing tips.
Technology Transfer and Licensing World wide inventor resource for information.
Lambert & Lambert Lots of marketing and licensing information.
Marketing your invention:
Idea Trade Network
ITN allows you to buy or sell ideas, new inventions as well as patents and trademarks
Licensing Executives Society
is a professional society engaged in development, use, transfer, marketing & management of intellectual property for more than last 40 years
Toy Industry Association
a website dedicated to toy industry providing info & reiews on toys of all kinds
Yet2.com
a website focused on helping people identify and capture full value of their intellectual assets
Marketing & Product Evaluation:
QVC Product Evaluation
How to get your product evaluated for possible airing on QVC television and online shopping.
Wal-Mart Innovation Network
The WIN program is an innovative service designed to help inventors or manufacturers of new products evaluate the potential of their ideas. An honest, objective and third-party analysis of the risks and potential of your idea, product or invention.
Advertising & Public Relations:
*Cost per Click Breakeven Calculator - Excel spreadsheet tool to analyze online breakeven calculator
*Press Release - Guiding template for a press release related to a new product / invention.
The Fernau Group - Public Relations and Marketing - Identify your audience, determine your message and get public exposure for your business, product or project.
MIT's INVENTOR'S HANDBOOK http://web.mit.edu/invent/h-main.html
KEEP GREAT RECORDS,
Learn how to correctly record and document your ideas, inventions and the problems you are working on with these helpful guides. Records can save you or break you as an inventor. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inventor's_notebook http://inventors.about.com/od/inventormagazines/bb/log_book.htm
http://www.ipwatchdog.com/inventing/invention-notebook/
FAQ (frequent asked questions by inventors) http://www.asktheinventors.com/faq.htm
http://www.inventorsdigest.com/ABCinventing.aspx
Video for young students on basic inventing process:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuXmpY3UNos
Learn from experience
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V17jPH1LdbI
13 Things Every Inventor Should Know" about the business end of inventing: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=2469110490333006644&q=utahinventor.org&2Ffont>
Investors
Many inventors search for investors to infuse funds into their invention in exchange for equity in the business. Venture capital firms or angel investors will examine your business plan and invention with scrutiny before they ever decide to invest in a new product.
They will look for a solid company, patent protection, industry market analysis, financial strength, identified branding, and often initial sales distribution.
At MIPO we work with several accredited investors to guide our inventors in understanding the investor process and increasing the likelihood for equity investment in their business.
Venture Capital Speaks to Inventors
For more information on investing classes and consulting contact MIPO at info_mipooregon.org or by phone (503) 546-8813
Kids
For Kids and Teachers:
U.S. Patent Office Kids Page
Ron Riley's Kid Inventor Homepage Great website for Young Inventors and Teachers. Keep up the good work Ron!
Howstuffworks.com Award-winning site providing Internet users with clear, straightforward information on how stuff works
