Startup: Protect Your IP

Wei Wei Jeang, Wei Wu

Why is safeguarding IP crucial for startup success?

How does IP protection attract investors?

What role does IP play in fostering innovation among startups?

Innovation is not just about ideas; it's about the impact those ideas can make on the world. IP protection isn't just a legal formality – it's a strategic necessity.

1. Trademark search and clearance: When your startup is in the conceptual stage, clear the rights to the company’s business names, logos, and domain names.

2. File IPs proactively in foreign countries: Consider IP protection in foreign jurisdictions and decide where you want to file.

3. Use intent-to-use trademark filing: Intent-to-use allows your company to register a trademark before actually using it if your company has a genuine intent to use the mark in the future.

4. Protect your business name: File your name with the secretary of state, register your name as an internet domain name, file a state or federal trademark application, and consider if fictitious names are necessary.

5. Develop advertising strategies: A successful marketing should comply with product labeling laws, trademark laws, and regulations on sales promotions, contests, and sweepstakes.

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