Key Takeaways:

  • An invention proposal is a structured document outlining an invention's concept, purpose, and potential marketability.
  • The introductory section should succinctly summarize the invention and its importance.
  • A reader-focused section highlights how the invention solves a problem or meets a need.
  • The invention description must provide technical details, including materials, mechanisms, and functionality.
  • The patenting aspect discusses patent eligibility, prior art searches, and application strategies.
  • The about the inventor section should establish credibility and expertise.
  • Additional information includes business plan development, funding strategies, and commercial viability assessment.
  • Protecting intellectual property extends beyond patents, including trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets.
  • A strong market analysis can increase an invention’s chances of success by identifying potential competitors and target customers.
  • Seeking legal assistance is advisable for securing intellectual property rights.

An invention proposal example is what an inventor for a potentially patentable product or process would write in order to propose their idea to the management department of the company they work for, or to potential investors, or to potential patent licensees.

What Is an Invention Proposal?

Anyone with a good idea that they believe is unique and would be appealing to the market should consider creating an invention proposal in order to get the idea patented and protected before another inventor takes it or tries to profit from it. This invention proposal will be the basis for a later patent application for the invention if it's not already patented.

How to Write an Invention Proposal

The main sections of an invention proposal are:

  • The introduction.
  • A reader-focused section.
  • A description section.
  • Final section about the inventor.

Key Elements of a Strong Invention Proposal

A compelling invention proposal must clearly communicate the following elements:

  • Problem Statement: Define the issue your invention addresses.
  • Innovative Solution: Explain how your invention provides a novel approach to solving the problem.
  • Market Demand: Support your invention’s viability with data on target users and competitors.
  • Technical Feasibility: Include specifications, functionality, and potential manufacturing challenges.
  • Revenue Potential: Outline possible monetization strategies, including licensing, direct sales, or partnerships.
  • Investment Appeal: Address potential funding sources, such as venture capital, crowdfunding, or government grants.

Introductory Section

The proposal should begin with a cover letter that simply lays out what the proposal is about. You'll want to state your name and relationship to the reader. You'll also want to explain the reason for the proposal. Are you looking for patent investors or pitching something to your manager. Be clear about what you're looking for from the reader. What do you hope to convince them to do with this proposal? Don't forget to also include the necessary contact information if your reader is really interested in supporting your idea.

After the cover letter, you'll include a title page. This piece will be simple with just the name of the proposal. The title should clearly represent your idea. More complicated invention proposals will need to include a table of contents for readability and possibly an executive summary. An executive summary pulls out all of the most important points of the proposal and puts them in a list form for quick reading.

Crafting an Effective Executive Summary

Your invention proposal should begin with an executive summary that immediately captures the reader’s interest. This section should be concise yet informative, addressing:

  • The invention’s core concept.
  • The unique value it offers compared to existing solutions.
  • The current development stage (e.g., prototype, patent pending).
  • A brief mention of market potential and funding requirements.
  • The next steps, such as securing investors or applying for patents.

A well-structured executive summary increases engagement and encourages stakeholders to review the entire proposal.

Reader-Focused Section

This is the part of the proposal where you clearly lay out what you need from your audience. Answer the questions you think they will ask. Spell out what they would need to do in order to support the project. You'll also want to use this section to sell your idea. Get the reader interested. Show them how they can benefit from being involved.

Invention Description

The invention description piece of the invention proposal should give a detailed description of your invention. This should cover the process of coming up with the idea for the invention and what its main purpose will be. You'll also want to describe how the invention could be manufactured. Be mindful of not getting too detailed so as to narrow the scope of a future patent. Patents cover inventions based on their main use, so the broader the use, the more coverage the patent provides.

Market Research and Competitive Analysis

Before submitting an invention proposal, conducting thorough market research is crucial. This includes:

  • Identifying the target audience: Who will benefit from your invention?
  • Analyzing competitors: What similar solutions exist? What are their strengths and weaknesses?
  • Understanding market size and demand: Is there a gap in the market for your invention?
  • Consumer feedback: Have you conducted surveys, focus groups, or pilot tests?

This information not only strengthens your proposal but also demonstrates that your invention has a viable market opportunity.

The Patenting Aspect of an Invention Proposal

If the purpose of your invention proposal is to obtain a licensee for your patented invention, you'll want to approach the proposal a little differently. You'll need to include important details about what the patent covers, the proposed terms of the licensing agreement, and the cost for the license. You might need to also include information about the following:

  • Nondisclosure agreements.
  • Procedures.
  • Limitations.
  • Intellectual Property.
  • Cost Summary.
  • Restrictions.

Getting the input of an experienced patent lawyer can help you know exactly what to include in your proposal to better your chances of obtaining a licensee. Also, if you're proposing to license your patented invention, you'll first need a patent to license. Applying for a patent can take time, so be sure to have all of your ducks in a row before starting this process.

Beyond Patents: Protecting Your Intellectual Property

While patents are essential for protecting your invention, other forms of intellectual property (IP) protection may also be relevant:

  • Trademarks: Protect your brand name, logo, or product name.
  • Copyrights: Secure creative materials, including design drawings and marketing materials.
  • Trade Secrets: Keep proprietary formulas, processes, or manufacturing techniques confidential.

By utilizing multiple layers of IP protection, you can safeguard your invention from unauthorized use or imitation.

About the Inventor Section

In the last part of the proposal, you will essentially sell yourself as a trustworthy inventor. Here you'll want to convince your reader that you know what you're doing. An easy way to do this is by including your:

  • Education background.
  • Expertise.
  • Experience.
  • Certifications.

This is a good place to include a short biography or resume. If you hold any other patents, you should list them. Think about what a reader would like to know about you. What do you think would make them want to partner with you? Present yourself as reliable and professional.

Building a Business Plan Around Your Invention

A solid business plan enhances the credibility of your invention proposal. Consider including:

  • Business Model: Will you license your invention, manufacture it yourself, or sell the patent?
  • Funding Strategy: Outline your financial needs and potential sources, such as angel investors, crowdfunding, or government grants.
  • Go-to-Market Plan: Detail how you plan to bring your invention to consumers, including pricing, distribution, and marketing.
  • Risk Assessment: Identify potential challenges and how you plan to mitigate them.

An invention backed by a well-researched business plan increases its chances of securing funding and market success.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an invention proposal?An invention proposal is a structured document that outlines an invention’s concept, purpose, market potential, and feasibility. It helps attract investors, partners, and patent approval.

2. How detailed should an invention proposal be?It should be thorough yet concise, covering essential aspects such as technical details, market research, and business viability while remaining engaging and easy to understand.

3. Do I need a patent before writing an invention proposal?No, but including information about patentability and prior art research can strengthen your proposal. It’s advisable to consult a patent attorney for guidance.

4. What funding options are available for new inventors?Options include crowdfunding, venture capital, government grants, business loans, and strategic partnerships with industry leaders.

5. How can I protect my invention idea before securing a patent?Use non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) when discussing your invention with potential partners, file a provisional patent application, and keep detailed records of your development process.

If you need help with an invention proposal, you can post your legal need on UpCounsel's marketplace. UpCounsel accepts only the top 5 percent of lawyers to its site. Lawyers on UpCounsel come from law schools such as Harvard Law and Yale Law and average 14 years of legal experience, including work with or on behalf of companies like Google, Menlo Ventures, and Airbnb.