Business, Leadership, and Communication

Different intellectual property types require distinct protection methods. Determine the nature of your idea to choose the appropriate technique(s), such as

trademarks for brand distinction,

trade dress for product appearance,

trade secrets for confidential business information,

copyright for original creative works, and

patents for novel inventions.

• Intellectual Property: A Primer for Businesses (U.S. Chamber of Commerce)

  Learn more about intellectual property rights and law in the United States, particularly related to copyright, patents, and trademarks.

• U.S. Copyright Office

  The central point for all things copyright in the United States, the U.S. Copyright Office website provides a wealth of resources to assist from the basics of copyright to information on how to register your works.

• Patent Basics (U.S. Patent and Trademark Office)

  Provides an overview about patents in the United States. Including essentials of patents, how to apply for one, and managing any of your patents.

• Trademark Basics (U.S. Patent and Trademark Office)

  Provides an overview about trademarks in the United States. Includes the essentials of trademark law, information on how to register a trademark, and additional resources.