[Devaskyla]

Anyone have any idea how you'd go about selling an idea to a company? I come up with lots of great product ideas that I haven't got the time, energy, knowledge or money to actually get out into the market. It would be nice to be able to sell the ideas at least.

 

[eepster]

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(I don't know how, but I thought I'd bump and sub.)

 

[E.V. Lowi]

The first thing that I recommend you do is to work up a prototype of your idea and file for legal protection if there is any. By documenting your idea in this fashion, you create something tangible of value to sell and protect your rights. Then you will be able to show your working model to companies who might be interested in licensing the rights to manufacture and market your product.

 

[dogmom327]

Quote:

Originally Posted by E.V. Lowi The first thing that I recommend you do is to work up a prototype of your idea and file for legal protection if there is any. By documenting your idea in this fashion, you create something tangible of value to sell and protect your rights. Then you will be able to show your working model to companies who might be interested in licensing the rights to manufacture and market your product.

I agree but you should be aware that a patent is only good as your willingness/financial ability to defend it in court. A company can just take your idea even if you have a patent unless you are able to afford to go to court to defend it (i.e. the government isn't going to stop them because you have a patent). It's an imperfect system.

 

[E.V. Lowi]

Quote:

Originally Posted by dogmom327 I agree but you should be aware that a patent is only good as your willingness/financial ability to defend it in court. A company can just take your idea even if you have a patent unless you are able to afford to go to court to defend it (i.e. the government isn't going to stop them because you have a patent). It's an imperfect system.

The penalties awarded by the courts for copyright, trademark and patent infringement are well worth it! If a company steals your idea after you have shown it to them and you can prove it in court, if you prevail in court, you could become a millionaire even if you personally never sell the idea. If you have a good case with well documented proof of originality, you can find an attorney who will handle your case on a contingency basis.