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What is IP?

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IP Made Easy 
Your IP tutorial to discover how intellectual property is everywhere and why it’s worth protecting and teaching

Whether you’re a teacher guiding young inventors, a parent of a curious creator, a college student with a side hustle, or a first time entrepreneur with a big idea – this fun, engaging, and totally digestible tutorial will help you understand how to protect what you create. Packed with real life stories, surprising examples, and zero legal jargen, it’s the perfect starting point for anyone new to intellectual property.

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Why is IP Education Important? 

Intellectual property is the foundation of innovation. It’s important for companies, small businesses, and individuals. From the medications you might take, to the technology you scroll, or the music you listen to – IP is a part of our every day lives. IPO Education Foundation strives to expand opportunities to learn about the intellectual property system. “By breaking down barriers to information, we empower more creators, inventors, and entrepreneurs of all ages to protect and grow their ideas.” Deputy Executive Director, Kristen Lurye.

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What is IP?

There are four types of Intellectual Property (or IP): patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Did you know that many soda companies keep their recipes private? This is considered a trade secret! What about the cell phone you use every day? It has hundreds of patented inventions inside of it to make the phone function the way it does. Something is eligible for a patent if it is a new, useful, and non obvious invention. This could mean anything from a water balloon launcher to a rocket ship!

 

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Copyright

Protecting original works of authorship, like books, music, and art, allowing creators control and benefit from their work’s distribution and adaptation.

Patent

Protecting inventions by granting the inventor exclusive rights to make, use, and sell the invention for a set period of time.

Trademark

Protecting symbols, names, and slogans used to identify goods or services, helping consumers distinguish between brands and ensuring brand reputation.

Trade Secret

Protecting confidential business information that provides a competitive edge, as long as the information remains secret.