Dunn Richmond

November 02, 2023

Register now for Patents Boot Camp on Nov. 8

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. — The Patents Boot Camp, a free, one-day workshop to provide entrepreneurs, small businesses, inventors and anyone interested in patents with valuable information about the patent application process, is coming to Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Dunn-Richmond Economic Development Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 8.

Comprehensive patent session

The workshop is provided by the Illinois Small Business Development Center and the Office of Innovation and Economic Development at SIU in conjunction with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). It will cover a wide variety of patent-related topics, including understanding patents and intellectual property rights, the importance of claims in a patent application, the various requirements of a patent application and how to do a prior art or patentability search. The workshop will also cover how to draft claims and understanding application forms, and will include training on submitting electronic filings to the Patent Center. There will be discussion about free resources available through the USPTO and ample time for questions and answers.

“The Illinois SBDC and the Office of Innovation and Economic Development at SIU are thrilled to be hosting the Patents Boot Camp in collaboration with the USPTO,” said Melissa Ray-Roach, director of the Illinois SBDC. “Our center and team are passionate about supporting businesses, entrepreneurs and inventors in our region. This event is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate the patent application process more effectively. We believe this event will not only empower our area entrepreneurs but also help contribute to the growth of businesses in our region. With the support of the USPTO, we aim to provide valuable insights and resources to help businesses thrive. We encourage everyone interested in patents and intellectual property to register for this unique, no-cost opportunity.”

Register now

Advance registration is required. Sign up online now as space is limited. Lunch will be provided.

For more information about the Illinois Small Business Development Center at SIU or the many services it provides, visit the website, call 618-536-2424 or email sbdc@siu.edu.