Invention. I have patent pending don't know where to go for the next steps?

Question

Would like to find investors and how do I go about getting the product produced and marketed. So many questions Just don't know where to go

Answer 1

Your questions are complex. You have a number of options and there is no exact recipe for success. Each invention situation is different and there are many factors to consider.  Some of the key factors that will play a role in determining the best plan for your invention are:

1. Nature of your invention (improvement, stand-alone product or technology platform)

2. Strength of your patent relative to existing patents

3. Scope of freedom to practice your invention (would you infringe existing patents)

4. Data needed to validate your concept

5. Applicable markets for your invention

6. Technical feasibility and development challenges

7. Regulatory requirements, if any, for sale

8. Competitive landscape

You can consider a spectrum of opportunities from licensing or selling your invention at the outset to starting a company. This is obviously a complex process and it involves expertise in many areas that most people have not had a lot of exposure or education.  Talking with industry experts and executives is probably the best way to craft a good strategy. I recommend getting several perspectives as it is more an art that a science.  An industry CEO, seasoned marketing executive, successful entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and an experienced R&D engineer are a few examples of valuable but likely different perspectives on your best plan.  These discussions may also provide a path to a licensing or sale discussion or the building of a startup team.  Just remember, use a nondisclosure agreement until your patent application has published. If you have a strong background and expertise in the field, you may have a reasonable chance at getting investors and starting a company.  If not, I would look to selling or licensing your patent to a company that is in the business.