- 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.
Can someone Copyright my idea?
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.
How do I copyright my invention?
- Keep a Written Record of Your Invention. Record every step of the invention process in a notebook. ...
- Make Sure Your Invention Qualifies for Patent Protection. ...
- Assess the Commercial Potential of Your Invention. ...
- Conduct a Thorough Patent Search. ...
- Prepare and File an Application With the USPTO.
How can I trademark my idea for free?
- Step 1: Search Existing Trademarks. ...
- Step 2: Draw the Trademark. ...
- Step 3: Decide the Basis for Filing. ...
- Step 4: File the Application Online. ...
- Step 5: Track Application Status. ...
- Step 6: Keep Ownership of Your Patent.
Is it legal to steal someones 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.
Can you get sued for stealing someone's 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.