Latest news with #bioscience
Entrepreneur
2 days ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
4 Surprising Patent Myths That Could Cost You Big — What You Need to Know Now
Think patents are just legal jargon or a guaranteed payday? Discover the surprising truths behind common U.S. patent myths and what you really need to know before you file. Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. When people hear the word "patent," they often think of complicated legal jargon or massive tech companies. As defined by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), a patent is an exclusive right granted for an invention that provides inventors with legal protection. But whether you're a solo entrepreneur, a scientist, or a small business owner, patents can play a crucial role in protecting your unique ideas and innovations. For me, patents have been a very personal part of my journey as an entrepreneur and scientist, especially in my pursuit of protecting my ideas and leaving a lasting impact with my work. The world of patents is a complicated one, with a number of requirements that anyone looking to file must meet. Additional complexities come into the mix depending on the country you're filing in. For readers who are considering protecting their own inventions or products, understanding these nuances is key. With so many moving parts, it's no surprise that there are a number of widespread myths surrounding U.S. patents in particular. These myths can lead to confusion and misunderstandings, making it even more intimidating to begin the patent process. I've authored multiple patents, many rooted in bioscience, detox technology and environmental sustainability. And along the way, I've uncovered some pretty surprising truths — and debunked quite a few myths — about how the U.S. patent system really works. Whether you're just starting to explore patents or already in the process, the best way to break down common myths about U.S. patents is to debunk them with facts. Below, I take a look at four U.S. patent myths and address the real truth behind them to help you make better informed decisions related to your own patents, so you can protect your ideas and bring your innovations to life. Related: How to Identify the Patent-Worthy Innovations in Your Business Debunking four U.S. patent myths There are a number of myths surrounding U.S. patents, from the length of patent validity to the actual steps of the patent filing process. One that's especially persistent is the idea that having a patent automatically means you will make money. I wish it were that simple. If you're an innovator hoping to monetize your invention, understanding this distinction will save you time and disappointment. A patent is just one part of the bigger picture — it's a protective tool, not a guarantee of profit. You still need a solid plan, strong partnerships and the right timing to actually bring that innovation to life. Let's clear up four common U.S. patent myths to provide you with a clearer understanding of what a patent can actually do for your journey. Myth 1: There is only one kind of U.S. patent Utility: For new or improved processes, machines and inventions. Design: For new, original and ornamental designs, such as the shape or pattern of a useful item. Plant: For new kinds of plants invented or discovered through asexual reproduction. There are actually three types of U.S. patents that you can file for. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) lists the three types of patents as follows: The specific type of U.S. patent you'll want to file for will depend on your idea, invention or innovation. Before you begin the patent process, start with a deep dive into what's already out there. A thorough patent search can save you a lot of time and frustration. Then, make sure you're clear on what kind of patent you need — utility, design or plant — because each has a different purpose and process. For you, this means your invention's unique features will dictate your approach, so getting this step right early is critical. Myth 2: You need to be a lawyer or tied to a large company to receive a patent This is one of the biggest myths I ran into early on, and it's simply not true. While it helps to have legal experts involved, especially when you're trying to protect your work globally, many of my patents came from deeply personal research and experiences. I was hands-on with every single step, from the science to the strategy. You can absolutely be an independent innovator and still protect your ideas. You don't need a massive machine behind you — just a clear vision, dedication and the right guidance. So, if you're worried you don't "fit the mold" of who can file patents, rest assured that many successful inventors started exactly where you are now. Myth 3: Patents are valid forever It's not surprising that this myth is popular, especially given how confusing the different types of U.S. patents can be to the general public. Tie in the legal complexities of patents, and it's easy to see how patent protection periods get lost in the mix. Patents are not valid forever. The three types of U.S. patents all have different lengths of validity. According to the USPTO , utility and plant patents have a period of up to 20 years "from the date the first non-provisional application for patent was filed." A design patent is valid for a period of 15 years from the date it's granted. If you're considering your patent as a long-term asset, it's important to plan accordingly. Knowing the expiration timeline helps you strategize how to maximize the value of your invention while your patent is active. Related: Unlocking the Market Potential of Your Patent Portfolio — A Guide for Entrepreneurs Myth 4: A U.S. patent protects my idea/invention globally In 2023, the U.S. was second behind China as the country with the most patent applications filed worldwid e. U.S. patent applications totaled 518,791 that year. Any patents filed in the U.S. that are granted will provide legal protection within the country, not globally. Patents are territorial rights, meaning the protections a patent provides are only applicable in the country where the patent is filed and granted. But that's not to say you can't protect your idea or invention worldwide —you can think globally. If your invention has the potential to help people outside the U.S., explore international patent options early. You may need to apply in individual countries or use international systems like the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). I've learned that having a team that understands both the science and the legal side makes everything smoother and more successful when seeking international patent coverage. For innovators like you aiming to expand your impact, early global strategy can be a game-changer. For anyone who's looking to protect their ideas, seeking a U.S. patent is a crucial step to take. And by debunking the myths and misconceptions that surround them, you'll be able to make better informed decisions as you start the patent process for yourself. But remember, filing a patent isn't just about protecting your idea — it's about building a legacy. Every time I've submitted an application, I've done it knowing I was adding something meaningful to the world. And for me, that makes every challenge and every late-night research session worth it. If you're on a similar path, know that your dedication to protecting your ideas today could lead to innovations that change tomorrow. Join top CEOs, founders and operators at the Level Up conference to unlock strategies for scaling your business, boosting revenue and building sustainable success.
National Post
25-06-2025
- Business
- National Post
Internship Program Relaunches to Empower Green Innovation Through Employment
Article content OTTAWA, Ontario — BioTalent Canada is empowering employers to bring their innovations to market sooner while developing the next generation of talent with the reopening of the Science Horizons Youth Internship Program. Article content 'The Science Horizons Youth Internship Program helps companies build that capacity today, while fostering the careers of tomorrow's professionals.' Article content Science Horizons provides wage subsidies to eligible employers in the green economy to hire recent university, college and polytechnic graduates. The program is part of the Government of Canada's Youth Employment and Skills Strategy. With over $750,000 in new funding from Environment and Climate Change Canada, the program will support small and medium-sized employers in Canada's bioscience sector by placing 25 recent graduates. Article content The Science Horizons Youth Internship Program has helped small and medium-sized businesses gain access to hire scientific and technical staff since 1997 through paid internships. BioTalent Canada has an established track record in administering federal employer support programs, such as Science Horizons, which facilitate the integration of emerging talent into the bio-economy. The program supports youth employment while helping organizations mitigate the financial impact of hiring. Article content 'Employers can find talent with the skills to advance Canada's green economy,' says Rob Henderson, President and CEO of BioTalent Canada. 'The Science Horizons Youth Internship Program helps companies build that capacity today, while fostering the careers of tomorrow's professionals.' Article content Key Employer Benefits: Article content The internships must be in an environment-related STEM role or a STEM-focused organization. Article content 'As a trusted leader in developing Canada's bio-economy workforce, BioTalent Canada understands what employers need to thrive in a rapidly evolving green economy,' says Henderson. 'Through Science Horizons, we are not only supporting hiring needs, we help shape a more sustainable, inclusive and innovation-ready workforce for the future.' Article content About BioTalent Canada Article content BioTalent Canada supports the people behind life-changing science. Trusted as the go-to source for labour market intelligence, BioTalent Canada guides bio-economy stakeholders with evidence-based data and industry-driven standards. BioTalent Canada, as a workforce development council, is focused on igniting the industry's brainpower, bridging the gap between job-ready talent and employers, and ensuring the long-term agility, resiliency and sustainability of one of Canada's most vital sectors. Article content BioTalent Canada has received varied distinctions following thorough and independent analyses of the organization. By practicing the same industry standards it recommends to partners, the organization has been honored with the following titles: Article content Great Place to Work® since 2019 and one of the Best Workplaces in Healthcare for 2023 by Great Place to Work Canada® The Best Leader in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the 2024 Best Ottawa Business Awards 2024 Collaboration Catalyst by Magnet Network One of Canada's Best Places to Work by HRD Canada for 2024 5-Star Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Employer by Canadian HR Reporter for 2024 Article content For more information, please visit Article content About Science Horizons Article content The Science Horizons Youth Internship Program provides wage subsidies to recent graduates to acquire work experience in fields linked to the green economy. The program covers the cost of a participant's salary by 80% up to a maximum of $25,000. This paid internship helps bio-economy and healthcare employers hire the talent they need and help graduates gain skills to secure full-time employment in environmental fields. Article content Article content Article content Contacts Article content Media Inquiries: Article content Article content Siobhan Williams Article content Article content Article content
Irish Times
28-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Times
Minister hails ‘exciting' degree where students spend two years working in industry
A new biopharma degree where students spend half their time on campus and half completing paid work experience has been hailed by the Minister for Higher Education as an 'exciting step forward' for how third level education is delivered in Ireland. The new BSc/MSc in immersive bioscience and biotherapeutics at University of Limerick (UL) is due to be launched on Thursday. The development comes at a time of debate in higher education circles about whether the sector is too reliant on industry-sponsored research and education in order to plug State funding gaps. UL has described the degree as a new venture. designed in collaboration with international companies such as Eli Lilly and Analogue Devices, which seeks to 'cultivate the leading scientific minds of the future'. READ MORE The companies will contribute to curriculum design, participate as guest contributors and host students on industry residencies. The first intake of students will be in September 2026. It follows a similar model to UL's immersive software engineering programme, now in its third year of operation. Students will receive a bachelor and master of science degree in four years, with two years spent learning on campus and two years working in biotech industries. UL says students will have the 'competitive advantage of two years of experience working in industry when they graduate'. Minister for Higher Education James Lawless welcomed the launch of the 'iBio' programme. 'This innovative, industry-led and learner-focused course recognises that not all learning happens in lecture halls,' he said. 'Through immersive, hands-on experiences, both on campus and in the workplace, students will graduate with not just a degree, but two full years of real-world industry experience.' The programme, he said, offered 'more choice, more relevance, a modern model of education that's fit for the future and supports the vision of education driving Ireland's economy.' Acting UL president Professor Shane Kilcommins said the new degree represented a 'giant leap forward' in the delivery of undergraduate scientific education. Students, he said, will be 'embedded in the knowledge community where they are active and interactive partners in the learning process.' Prof Jakki Cooney, iBio course director, said the course was all about developing a passion for the science of disease and medicines, about being creative and curious about the world, embracing challenges and working in teams using scientific data to solve complex problems. 'We are offering a new way to learn the science and biology of medicine making and discovery,' she said. The Government has acknowledged that there is a funding gap of more than €300m facing Irish higher education and has pledged to address this over successive budgets. Meanwhile, research by into funding of Irish universities found that industry funding of third level is increasingly becoming the norm. The paper highlighted potential risks such as the erosion of support for academic endeavours that may not be perceived as having commercial value, as well as challenges in preserving the integrity of academia in a landscape increasingly driven by market-driven priorities.
