Sometimes, to preserve more rights to an invention, an inventor will choose to start a business to take an invention to some predetermined level of completion, before turning the invention over to another company to complete the manufacturing and/or marketing process. Microsoft did this, as have some of our customers. However, the success of a business is often independent of the product it sells!

Usually, the better method of making money from your invention is to license the patent rights to an existing company that manufactures and markets the invention. Licensing your patent rights occurs when you permit a manufacturer or marketer to commercialize your invention, typically in return for royalties. Licensing benefits an inventor who lacks the resources or interest to manufacture and market the idea. Licensing also benefits the manufacturer by reducing the need for costly research and development departments while obtaining novel ideas. The Invention Factory has assisted inventors with the licensing of their patent rights, and can assist you in the licensing of your patent rights.

If you decide to license, you can use our databases that contain information about manufacturers throughout the United States who are potentially seeking new products. Utilizing these databases, you can create a list of manufacturers that will potentially be interested in licensing or purchasing your patent rights. We also have lists of government agencies and nonprofit organizations that can assist you in the promotion of your patent rights.