Key Takeaways

  • Conduct thorough market research before moving forward with your invention.
  • Create detailed drawings and multiple prototype versions before final production.
  • Explore funding options such as crowdfunding, grants, loans, and venture capital.
  • Learn how to pitch your invention effectively to manufacturers and investors.
  • Understand production methods to decide between licensing your invention or manufacturing it yourself.

If you're asking, “How do I get an invention made?” understand that it takes a lot of time and effort. You should conduct sufficient research to make sure other people will be interested in your invention. Obtaining a patent provides valuable rights for you as well.

How to Make Your Invention a Reality

When you have a patent in the works, it's a good time to make a working model of your invention. You don't have to go through an expensive, extensive process. You can make this first version yourself.

Your prototype is a model of your creation that puts all of your specifications into practice. It helps demonstrate your invention when you present it to others.

Some general rules that apply to prototype creation include the following:

  • Start with a drawing. Before you create a prototype, sketch out your ideas.
  • Create a mockup out of material that allows you to make a 3-D model.
  • Next, create a full-working model. Consult with books or kits that help with prototype creation. If your prototype will cost too much or has too many obstacles to create it, look into using a computer-animated prototype.
  • Remember that you don't have to use the same materials to make your prototype as you would your actual invention unless those materials are absolutely essential. Also, if you can't make a prototype yourself, you might want to hire a company to do it for you. Keep the cost in mind as this may be pricey.

Once you have a patent and prototype, you're ready for the next step, which is making a presentation of your invention. You'll present to potential buyers and manufacturers.

Tips on presentations include the following:

  • Make your presentation very professional, no matter how you create it. It's up to you if you want to use video, PowerPoint, or a presentation board.
  • Include a lot of information in visual form, such as images and diagrams. Cover your product's specifications, its uses, and benefits.
  • Consider hiring a graphic designer who can put together an eye-catching presentation for you. You can encourage more interest with appealing visuals.
  • Practice speaking. Great images and diagrams aren't enough; you also need to be a good public speaker. Instead of memorizing notecards, have general ideas to address. Think about common questions your audience may have so that you're prepared with answers.

Refining and Testing Your Prototype

Once you create a basic prototype, it's important to refine and test it repeatedly. Early prototypes often reveal flaws or opportunities for improvement that can enhance your invention’s functionality and appeal. Consider producing several iterations to address any design challenges.

Here are important steps to refine your prototype:

  • Conduct User Testing: Share the prototype with trusted testers who fit your target audience to gather feedback.
  • Document Changes: Keep detailed notes about what works and what doesn’t after each test.
  • Incorporate Professional Support: Depending on your product’s complexity, it may be worth hiring an engineer or industrial designer for assistance.
  • Focus on Cost-Efficiency: During refinements, think about how the design can be optimized for easier and cheaper mass production​.

Working through multiple versions before finalizing your design is a critical step in how to get your invention built efficiently.

Going Public: Your Options

Look for local manufacturers that make products similar to yours, and ask them to produce your invention. Starting with an introductory letter is helpful. Explain who you are and how you'd like to work with them.

When you hear from a manufacturer, be prepared to present to them in person. Leave them with your information and a copy of your presentation. They'll want to review it before making a decision.

In your presentation, emphasize not only how your invention helps people but also how it can make the manufacturer money. They run a business, and they want to know they'll receive benefits, too.

Once you partner with a manufacturer, you're ready to mass-produce it. The company will likely start with small batches. If successful, then you'll move into producing hundreds or thousands of units.

After you've obtained a patent, designed a prototype, found a manufacturer, and produced your product, it's time to advertise.

Meet with local store managers and business owners to discuss selling with them. Show your presentation and detail why partnering with you is great for their business. When you're ready to create advertisements, hire a graphic designer to create impressive pictures and videos.

Look into various advertising outlets, such as the following:

  • Television stations
  • Newspapers
  • Local radio stations

You'll pay a fee to advertise through these channels.

Ask your friends and family to spread the word. People who believe in you can help get the word out about your invention.

Other things you can do to publicize yourself include the following:

  • Going to local and semi-local entrepreneurial conferences
  • Holding information sessions
  • Going to business fairs
  • Advertising in booths at local conventions

Making a new invention involves a lot of hard work. If you've invented something that you want to present to the world, take the right steps to protect your rights before going public.

Finding Funding to Build Your Invention

Building a physical product often requires financial support. Securing the right funding can move your invention from prototype to production.

Popular funding sources include:

  • Crowdfunding Platforms: Sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo allow inventors to raise funds from a broad audience before production begins​.
  • Small Business Loans: If you have a business plan, banks and credit unions might offer financing.
  • Angel Investors and Venture Capitalists: These investors fund promising ideas in exchange for equity or royalties.
  • Government Grants: Some agencies offer grants for inventions related to public welfare, technology, or education.
  • Incubators and Accelerators: These programs often provide funding, mentorship, and business development support.

Understanding your funding options helps you create a strategic plan for how to get your invention built and successfully launched.

Choosing Between Licensing and Manufacturing

After building a working prototype and securing funding, you'll need to decide whether to manufacture the product yourself or license it to a company.

Licensing your invention involves finding a company willing to produce, market, and sell your product while paying you royalties. This route reduces your financial risk and administrative burden.

Manufacturing your invention yourself gives you greater control and a larger share of profits but requires substantial upfront investment, marketing skills, and operational management​.

Choosing the right path depends on your business goals, resources, and appetite for risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do first to get my invention built?

Start by conducting market research and sketching your invention. Then, create a prototype to test functionality and gather user feedback.

2. How much does it cost to get an invention built?

Costs vary widely depending on the complexity, materials, and whether you hire professional help. Early prototypes can often be inexpensive, while full production may require significant investment.

3. Can I build an invention without a patent?

While you can build a prototype without a patent, it's strongly recommended to at least file a provisional patent application to protect your intellectual property.

4. How do I find investors for my invention?

You can find investors through crowdfunding platforms, networking events, small business incubators, venture capital firms, or angel investor networks.

5. Should I license my invention or manufacture it myself?

Licensing is less risky and hands-off, while manufacturing offers higher potential rewards but requires substantial time, capital, and business management skills.

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