Many startups are wary of international patents for many reasons: they are unaware of the concept of international patenting; they are skeptical of the business benefits of such a patent; they are concerned about the costs involved in the patenting process. While these concerns are genuine, they can be addressed effectively by patent strategizing experts such as M&B IP .

We educate engineers and innovators about international patent laws in simple non-legal language. Innovators are taught to identify patentable concepts of their innovations. Our experts then review these concepts and present them to the management. We then develop a patent filing process that is in accordance with your business goals.

Here are 6 factors to consider if you are seeking International Patent Protection:

Is your Invention Patentable in Foreign Jurisdictions?

If you are a startup with several patentable inventions, then your international patent strategizing approach should focus on choosing inventions that present the best case for foreign protection. Since patent laws vary significantly from country to country, it would be prudent to be assisted by patent strategizing experts to minimize your rejection chances.

Is your Patent Capable of Offering Good Returns?

As any patent strategizing expert will tell you, an international patent is a costly process. Your invention must be powerful enough to fetch excellent financial returns to balance the costs you will spend to acquire such extensive patents.

Study how your invention is adding value to your business. Is it a core component of your business or only an ancillary? Pursue international patent filing only if your invention can justify the costs involved.

Is your Invention Time-Bound?

Time-bound inventions are more likely to fade in the long run, meaning the invention is likely to lose its relevance after a period of time. Examine how relevant your invention would be in 4 to 5 years. This study is important because the international patent protection filing process is elaborate and time-taking. Consider an international patent only if your invention has a longer shelf-life.

Which Protection Would be the Best for My Invention?

Your invention may receive better protection as a “Trade Secret” than a patent. This is more likely to be true if your invention cannot be reverse-engineered and serves as a business asset only when kept a secret. In such cases, you will not receive international patent protection because then you must disclose the details of your patent.

Seeking the counsel of patent strategizing firms is crucial in cases where you have to decide the best protection for your invention and your business. As patent practitioners, our experts at M&B have in-depth knowledge of patent laws in the U.S., and worldwide. We can guide you on the best course of action.

Would International Patent Protection Be a Sound Strategy for my Business?

Every business is unique. If your invention can fetch good returns in a foreign country, or if you strongly feel that your competitors would benefit by exploiting your invention in other countries. Then, it would be best if you considered international patent protection as part of your business’ patent strategizing.

One fact that you need to consider thoroughly is the cost that such filing in multiple jurisdictions would involve. Your costs can easily run into several thousand dollars for every country, especially if your invention enjoys a longer lifecycle.

Would an International Patent Really Protect My Invention?

Your invention may have the technical feasibility for patent acquisition, but such protection’s strength depends on the strength of law execution in such jurisdictions. If you are filing for a foreign patent in a country with a weak system for patent law execution, then your invention may not be adequately protected. Solid patent strategizing is key to achieving sound international patent protection for your invention.

M&B IP  has the expertise to offer strategic guidance to startups through its services: Patent Mining and Strategizing, In-House Counseling, Patent Prosecution, and IP Monetization. Our robust global network comprises accomplished patent and business practitioners experienced in diverse industries. Together, we can create an international patent protection strategy that would transform your invention into a powerful business asset both in domestic and foreign markets.