INVENTION DEVELOPMENT FIRMS

As with most endeavors, product development assistance is available from both questionable and reputable sources. If in doubt as to the record of a company, check references carefully and contact the Consumer Protection Office, the Federal Trade Commission, the area Better Business Bureau, and inventor organizations. The Federal Trade Commission offers a free pamphlet “Facts for Consumers: Invention Promotion Firms,” available by calling (202) 326-3268 or write “Invention Promotions Firms”; Public Reference Branch; Federal Trade Commission; Washington, D.C. 20580. The Patent and Trademark Office (www.uspto.gov) also has information on invention development firms. For more information, contact the Wisconsin Innovation Service Center at (262) 472-1365 or email us.