Welcome to The Inventor’s Patent Academy

This is a free learning platform designed solely to encourage, inspire, and educate entrepreneurs and inventors across the United States. Here, you’ll gain a clear understanding of how to protect your IP, find important resources, apply for patents and generate value from your big ideas.

0+
Students enrolled and counting
0%
Majority of inventors are in this top percentage of high-earners
0% growth
Increased sales growth for startups with patents versus startups without

Our Partners in Patent Education

Oakwood University School of Business
AUTM (Assoc. of University Technology Managers)
Jackson State University
NAIPEC (Native American Intellectual Property Enterprise Council)
AAU (Assoc. of American Universities)
BWISE (Black Women in Science and Engineering)
AWIS (Assoc. for Women In Science)
Patent Pathways
SWE (Society of Women Engineers)
VentureWell
University of Nebraska-Lincoln NUtech Ventures
AnitaB.org
Boston University
Project Invent
Collaboratory for Women Innovators
HCC Real-World Education (Houston City College)
IEC (Inclusive Engineering Consortium)
Lemelson MIT
Emory University
CTL (Center for Technology Licensing at Cornell University)
California State University San Marcos
Future Forward
ECE
University of Oregon
Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
Qualcomm
Columbia Technology Ventures
WEPAN (Women in Engineering ProActive Network)
Institute for Women's Policy Research
Ohio State University
IEF (Inclusive Engineering Foundation)
ECEDHA (Electrical & Computer Engineering Department Heads Association)
OU Launchpad (Oakwood University)

Expertly Made

TIPA was created by patent holders, patent practitioners, and innovation experts, including Erin Kelley & Bernard Greenspan, PhD.

Business people in an entrance hall of office building

Welcome To The Patent System

Part 1 • 

1.75 Hours

8 Lessons

Your patent education begins with an overview of intellectual property rights. After that, you’ll learn about some challenges that you might face as you pursue your patents — along with strategies, tools, and tips for overcoming them.

Patent Essentials Course

2.5 Hours

14 Lessons

This course is a distilled version of the full TIPA course, focusing on the essential elements of patent applications. It is intended for those seeking a quick start to understanding the process and learning some of the vocabulary needed to work with a patent attorney or agent, or a technology transfer office.
Man at computer with project for 3d printer, tech and futuristic design process tools in office. Engineering workshop, technology developer or designer at desk with machine for model manufacturing.

Understanding Patent Law

Part 2 • 

2.5 Hours

11 Lessons

It’s time to dive into the specifics of patents, patent rights, and duration, including the steps for applying for a patent. You’ll also learn about the attorneys, patent agents, and other professionals who play a role in the process.

View from outside of the entrance to The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

Working With The Patent Office

Part 3 • 

1.75 Hours

5 Lessons

This module covers how to write claims, as well as office actions and responses. You’ll also get a breakdown of activities that occur after your patent issues — including freedom to operate, infringement, maintenance fee payments, and possible challenges to a patent.

Creating Value From Your Patents

2.75 Hours

10 Lessons

This course is intended for entrepreneurs who are ready to bring their invention to the marketplace.