Though you cannot trademark a business concept, you may be able to trademark the name, logo, or slogan used to brand your business. It might be possible for you to craft and trademark a slogan that embodies what you consider your business concept to be.
Can you copyright an idea or concept?
Copyright does not protect ideas, concepts, systems, or methods of doing something. You may express your ideas in writing or drawings and claim copyright in your description, but be aware that copyright will not protect the idea itself as revealed in your written or artistic work.
Can you patent a concept?
The simple answer is no—you cannot patent an idea for an invention. The invention itself has to be produced or a patent application containing the invention must be filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). While all inventions start with an idea, not every idea can be called an invention.Sep 16, 2020
How do I stop someone stealing my business idea?
- Non-Disclosure Agreements and Confidentiality Statements. A non-disclosure agreement (NDA) is one way to protect your idea before you present it to associates. ...
- Apply for a Patent. ...
- Trademark Your Company Name. ...
- Document Everything.
How do you legally secure a business idea?
Apply for a Patent Applying for a patent is a way of protecting a business idea. Though, you can't patent an idea. But, you can patent a method of doing business if it meets specific criteria. You can apply for one of three types of patents: utility patents, plant patents, or design patents.Dec 16, 2018
Can people steal your business idea?
Many entrepreneurs are surprised to learn that stealing someone else's business idea is often perfectly legal. In most cases, unless the idea is protected by a trademark, patent or copyright, other businesses can take the idea and run with it.
What happens when someone steals your business idea?
If you believe someone has stolen your idea, you may sue them. A court may grant an injunction to stop them from using or disclosing it or award you compensatory and/or punitive damages. Egregious cases could bring criminal charges.