Intellectual Property: Inventors, Entrepreneurs, Creators

Protect Your Innovations: A Guide to Intellectual Property for Inventors & Creators

In today's knowledge-driven economy, understanding intellectual property (IP) is more vital than ever. This course, "Intellectual Property: Inventors, Entrepreneurs, Creators," demystifies IP for everyone – not just legal professionals. Learn the fundamentals of IP protection and how it impacts your future.

Why is Intellectual Property So Important?

IP is a major driver of the U.S. economy, representing 38% of total GDP and 80% of the market value of publicly traded companies. From Silicon Valley startups to Fortune 500 corporations, and from academic research to global trade policy, IP issues are at the forefront of modern life. A basic understanding of intellectual property is now essential for anyone in science, business, arts, or any profession.

Why Take This Course?

Whether you're an innovator, entrepreneur, or creator, this course provides the knowledge to safeguard and leverage your intellectual property.

Key Topics Covered:

• Patents: Discover how patents grant exclusive rights to your inventions, benefiting both you and society. Learn what can be patented, what isn't, and how to successfully navigate the patent system.
• Copyrights: Protect your artistic and intellectual works with copyrights. Understand the nuances of Fair Use and what constitutes infringement.
• Trademarks: Learn why trademarks (words, names, and symbols) are valuable assets and how to effectively protect your trademarks.
• Trade Secrets: Explore whether you need public disclosure or if trade secrets offer a viable path to IP protection.

Developed by Experts:

"Intellectual Property: Inventors, Entrepreneurs, Creators" is based on "The Intangible Advantage: Understanding Intellectual Property in the New Economy," the leading IP textbook from The Michelson Institute for Intellectual Property. Authored by Pulitzer Prize-nominated IP expert David Kline, and executive edited by David Kappos (former Undersecretary of Commerce and Director of the Patent Office).

Resources for Deeper Learning:

Download "The Intangible Advantage" from the MichelsonIP website. Find the text-only version, an interactive eBook with learning assessments (available in iBooks), and our animated video series answering frequently asked IP questions on YouTube.

This course is presented by The Michelson Institute for Intellectual Property, an initiative of The Michelson 20MM Foundation, in partnership with The Intellectual Property Owners Education Foundation. Michelson 20MM is supported by Dr. Gary Karlin Michelson and Alya Michelson.