Protect Your Ideas: Intellectual Property Basics with Sean Wilkerson

Join WIEC and Montana West Economic Development for an introduction to intellectual property with Sean Wilkerson, Acting Director of the Northwest Frontier Community Engagement Office at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

If you’re unfamiliar with patents, trademarks, copyrights or trade secrets, this free session will help you understand intellectual property basics and explore ways to protect your innovation as it moves from idea to product.

The discussion will cover:

• An overview of patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets
• How to identify the intellectual property connected to your idea or business
• Why innovators and entrepreneurs should consider protecting their intellectual property
• Local sources of assistance and online resources available through the USPTO

Sean works with independent inventors, small businesses, entrepreneurs, makers, universities and innovation communities to connect them with resources and programs that support innovation.