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December 2024: Inventor Smart Newsletter – Insights, Innovation, and Community Highlights
Discover highlights from the Inventor Smart Community this December – featuring success stories, tips, and opportunities to elevate your invention journey.
Inventor Smart
December 15, 2024
In partnership with
December 2024
Whether you’re an experienced inventor or a newbie who just came up with your first big idea, the Inventor Smart Monthly Newsletter is for you!
From Aha! to Market: Your Exciting Journey as an Inventor
Have you ever experienced that electrifying moment when a brilliant idea strikes? Maybe you’ve watched Shark Tank and thought, “I could do that!” Well, you’re not alone. Every day, people just like you stumble upon potential inventions that could change lives or simply make them a little easier. But what does it really take to turn that spark of inspiration into a tangible product? Let’s explore the thrilling journey of invention and discover what happens behind the scenes.
The Birth of an Idea
It all starts with that “aha!” moment. Perhaps you’re folding laundry, stuck in traffic, or taking a shower when suddenly, inspiration strikes. You’ve identified a problem and come up with a solution that doesn’t seem to exist yet. Exciting, right? But before you start planning your appearance on Shark Tank, there’s work to be done.
The Power of Research
The first step in your invention journey is research, and lots of it. It’s not enough to stroll through Walmart and declare your idea unique if you don’t see it on the shelves. The world of inventions is vast, and your idea might already exist in some form. Here’s what you need to do:
Conduct a thorough patent search
Explore similar products in the market
Identify your target audience and their needs
Analyze potential competitors
Remember, good research can save you time, money, and heartache down the road.
Protecting Your Brainchild
If your research shows promise, it’s time to consider protecting your idea. This is where patent attorneys or patent agents come in handy. They can help you:
Determine if your invention is patentable
Navigate the world of intellectual property rights
File for patents, trademarks, or copyrights as needed
Having this protection can open doors to licensing opportunities, allowing you to earn royalties while giving companies a competitive edge with your innovation.
Bringing Your Idea to Life
Now comes the exciting part – creating a prototype. Whether it’s a crude model or a sleek, professional version, having a tangible representation of your idea is crucial. It helps you:
Refine your concept
Demonstrate functionality to potential investors or licensees
Identify areas for improvement
Working with product designers or engineers can take your prototype to the next level, creating something that looks, feels, and works like the final product.
The Manufacturing Journey
If you decide to produce your invention, you’ll enter the world of manufacturing. This involves:
Choosing materials
Finding the right resources and support
Developing packaging
Considering barcoding and product liability
Planning for warehousing and logistics
With careful planning and the right guidance, this process can be navigated successfully.
Balancing Passion and Practicality
Throughout this journey, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. Your invention might feel like your ticket to fame and fortune. While it’s great to be passionate, remember to:
Stay grounded in reality
Make decisions based on facts and market research
Be prepared for setbacks and learn from them
Celebrate small victories along the way
The invention process can be a rollercoaster of emotions, but keeping a level head will serve you well.
Read More: From Aha! to Market: Your Exciting Journey as an Inventor
By: Brian Fried, Invention Expert
How Can Innovation Management Increase the Chances of Successfully Bringing an Invention to Market?
Successful innovation management requires not only creative idea development but also strategic thinking, effective planning, and implementation during the later stages of the innovation process. This is the only way to ensure that innovation objectives are met and market success is achieved.
A successful market launch of an invention depends on various factors. To help you achieve your goals, here are 10 tips for a successful market launch.
10 Steps to Ensure the Success of Your Project
To increase the chances of turning an invention into a successful innovation, you can take the following measures:
Market Research
Understand demand, competition, and trends to ensure market fit and identify potential routes to success.Protect Intellectual Property
Secure patents, trademarks, or copyrights to safeguard your invention and maintain a competitive edge.Prototypes & Testing
Develop a prototype or MVP to test functionality, gather feedback, and refine the product to meet market needs.Business Model
Create a solid business plan that outlines target markets, value propositions, revenue streams, and sales strategies.Strategic Partnerships
Seek partnerships for resources, expertise, or market access to help advance development and distribution.Financing & Investment
Explore funding options such as grants, venture capital, or crowdfunding to support product development and marketing.Agile Development
Use agile methods to iterate and improve based on feedback, ensuring the product meets customer expectations.Marketing & Advertising
Build a comprehensive marketing strategy using online platforms, social media, and industry events to generate interest.User Feedback
Engage with early adopters to collect feedback, refine the product, and ensure customer satisfaction.Continuous Improvement & Scalability
Commit to ongoing innovation and scalability to adapt to growing demand and market changes.
Inventor Spotlight Ep. 09 | Elizabeth Berryman Kent & the Cycle Bike Shield
Discover the fascinating journey of Elizabeth Berryman Kent, the inventive mind behind the Cycle Bike Shield, in Episode 9 of the Inventor Spotlight Podcast! Hosted by Samantha St. Raymond and powered by the Inventor Smart Community App, this episode explores the challenges, successes, and inspiration behind Elizabeth's unique invention.
🚴♀️ About the Cycle Bike Shield
What started with her husband’s bath towel led Elizabeth to create a groundbreaking solution for motorcycle enthusiasts—a customizable cover that:
Protects windshields from UV rays and debris
Enhances the bike’s aesthetics with a sleek design
🎙 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How a household item sparked a market-disrupting invention
The innovative features and durable design of the Cycle Bike Shield
Navigating patents, licensing, and the inventor’s journey
Leveraging community resources like the Inventor Smart App for success
Whether you're an inventor, motorcycle enthusiast, or just curious about the creative process, Elizabeth’s story is a testament to how curiosity and determination can lead to revolutionary ideas.
✨ Watch the Full Episode Here:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwP47ctkVTk&t
Gif by groundlevelup on Giphy
Looking to fast-track your inventor journey? Enhance your Inventor Smart experience with these exclusive benefits:
🔍 Monthly Q&A sessions with expert inventors.
🌟 Increased app visibility with spotlight features.
🎓 Complimentary access to the Inventor Class masterclass.
💸 Special discounts at InventorMart and with Brian Fried, The Inventor Coach.
What is a Trade Secret?
Trade secrets are a form of intellectual property (IP) rights that protect confidential information, which may be sold or licensed.
What Qualifies as a Trade Secret?
To qualify as a trade secret, the information must meet the following criteria:
Commercially Valuable
The information must derive its value from being secret.Limited Access
It must be known only to a limited group of persons.Reasonable Protection Measures
The rightful holder must take reasonable steps to keep the information secret, including:Using confidentiality agreements with business partners and employees
Implementing security measures to safeguard the information
Protecting Trade Secrets
The unauthorized acquisition, use, or disclosure of such confidential information in a manner contrary to honest commercial practices is considered:
An unfair practice
A violation of trade secret protection
Event Recap: SHOP4INVENTIONS - Live Shopping Event Featuring Inventors' Products
On December 12, 2024, the Inventor Smart Community and National Inventor Club hosted an exciting livestream shopping event—SHOP4INVENTIONS! This interactive experience brought together independent inventors to showcase their innovative products, share their stories, and offer unique holiday gift ideas.
Highlights from the Event
🚀 12 Inventors Featured
We were honored to host 12 inventors who pitched their incredible creations, from game-changing tools and accessories to innovative household products and personal care solutions. Each inventor had the opportunity to present their product, share their journey, and even offer exclusive giveaways to the live audience.
🎁 Giveaways and Premium Memberships
Throughout the evening, we gave away multiple prizes, including product bundles and Inventor Smart Premium Memberships! Audience members engaged with the inventors, left testimonials, and won exciting rewards.
🌟 Live Interaction
Participants in the live studio audience got to ask questions, share their thoughts, and celebrate the creativity and passion of the inventors. It was a night of inspiration, innovation, and community support.
Missed the Event? Watch It Here:
Featured Inventors & Products
Deanna: Portable family games to turn any moment into family fun. TheGODeck.com
David Chaney: The Better Grip Paint Roller for efficient, ergonomic painting. BetterGripPaintRoller.com
Kerry Cooke: The Spleash leash handle with built-in water storage for dogs. Spleash.com
Becca Dunn & Samantha St. Raymond: The Yellow Dog Table, a compact, stable table for any outdoor adventure. YellowDogTable.com
Maryam Katongo: Customizable, sustainable clothing and accessories. KultureChic.com
Carlos Sotolongo: The Dipper Pro, a hands-free utility bucket for painting. Email: [email protected]
Glenn Lee: The WokMon, a revolutionary gas stove wok burner. Wokmon.com
Mark Scheithe: The Theramate, a mobility tool designed for better hygiene and diabetic care. Thera-Mate.com
Michael Majette: MyJet Luxoptics, a groundbreaking pillow for corrective neck care. MyJetPillow.com
Darrell : Innovative solutions from Stanton Industries. StantonIndustries.tech
Shawn Taylor: The Shore Cover Utensil Rest, a multifunctional kitchen tool. TheOpenDoorKitchen.com
Brian Fried: The Paper Towel Topper, a practical tool for every household. PaperTowelTopper.com
Each product is available for purchase, with many offering special discounts or giveaways for Inventor Smart Community members!
Thank You for Supporting Inventors
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined the event, supported the inventors, and participated in our raffles. Events like these are a testament to the power of innovation and community.
Upcoming NIC Event: Waiting for Announcement
Stay tuned for the announcement of our next exciting event. Be sure to check the event listings regularly at https://app.inventorsmart.com/events and keep an eye on your email for updates. We promise another engaging and informative session, and we can't wait to share more details with you soon!
The Got Invention Show
The Got Invention Show features a 30-minute interview where inventors promote their inventions, seek licensing deals, or explore distribution opportunities. Hosted by Brian Fried, the show dives into each guest’s challenges, solutions, journey, and future plans. Guests also share valuable insights for viewers and listeners.
Watch This Featured Episode
🎥 Sabina Miller – Foil Decor Invention
About the Episode
Sabina Miller, inventor of Foil Decor, shares her journey of creating an elegant, reusable serving system for disposable foil pans. Motivated by her own wedding planning experience, Sabina developed Foil Decor to solve the challenges of unattractive and flimsy foil pans while maintaining affordability and elegance. With multiple utility patents, a trademark, and success in trade shows, Sabina has brought her invention to life.
Watch Sabina’s Full Story: Foil Decor Interview
About the Got Invention Show
The show is a platform for inventors to showcase their products and ideas. Available on gotinventionshow.com, GotInventionTube, and major podcast platforms like Spotify, iHeartRadio, and Apple Podcasts.
Interested in Becoming a Guest?
If you’re an inventor looking to pitch your idea, find investors, or share your journey, sign up at gotinventionshow.com.
Host Brian Fried
As an inventor mentor and founder of Inventor Smart, Brian Fried has over 15 years of experience helping inventors bring their products to market. Learn more about him at brianfried.com.
📢 Subscribe to the Got Invention Show for more inspiring stories and inventor journeys!
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National Inventor Club at USPTO Inventor Day 2024
An Experience to Remember for a Lifetime!
On Friday, November 15th, 2024, the National Inventor Club hosted a remarkable Inventor Day at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in Alexandria, VA.
This special event gave inventors an exclusive chance to:
🏛️ Take guided tours of the USPTO facilities.
📚 Attend educational sessions on patents, trademarks, and innovation.
🤝 Network with fellow inventors and USPTO professionals from across the country.
The event was a huge success, fostering a vibrant community of inventors eager to learn, share, and grow.
🎉 Thank you to everyone who attended and made the day unforgettable!
For more updates and upcoming events, visit inventorday.com.
Words from Our Members
Inventor – NIC Member
Hartford, Wisconsin
"It is okay to get excited about your million-dollar idea. However, never get so attached to your idea that it closes your mind to other approaches. Remember, it is easier to go broke than to profit in this industry."
Ken Dael is a structural engineer by day and an inventor with an entrepreneurial spirit in his leisure time. With a passion for innovation and problem-solving, Ken has successfully manufactured his product, demonstrating his commitment to turning ideas into reality.
Ken is proud to be part of the Inventor Smart Community, where he connects with like-minded inventors who share his passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. He values the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and grow alongside others who are equally driven to make their ideas a success.
Take Your Invention Journey to the Next Level with Premium Insider Access
Turn your innovative ideas into reality. Join our exclusive Premium Insider circle to unlock a range of tailored resources and advantages designed to accelerate your progress.
On This Day in Inventor History
December 26, 1933: Edwin Armstrong’s Patent for FM Radio
On this day in 1933, Edwin H. Armstrong was granted a patent for his groundbreaking invention of frequency modulation (FM) radio. Armstrong, often hailed as “the most prolific and influential inventor in radio history,” laid the foundation for much of modern radio and electronic circuitry, including regenerative and superheterodyne circuits.
The Invention of FM Broadcasting
Born on December 18, 1890, in New York City, Armstrong revolutionized radio technology by creating the FM broadcasting system. Unlike amplitude modulation (AM), FM modulates the frequency of radio waves, resulting in clear, high-fidelity broadcasts free from the static caused by electrical storms and other interference.
Despite its potential, the radio industry was initially slow to embrace FM broadcasting. To demonstrate its value, Armstrong personally funded and built the first FM station in 1939. His innovation faced numerous challenges, including patent battles, resistance from industry players, and the impact of World War II.
Eventually, FM radio became the standard for high-quality audio transmission, transforming radio and TV sound as well as mobile and satellite communications. Armstrong’s contributions have secured his legacy as one of the greats of electrical engineering.
Stay Connected with the Inventor Smart Community
Read on for more upcoming events and highlights from the Inventor Smart Community App. Don't miss out on our latest workshops, networking opportunities, and exclusive resources designed to propel your inventing journey forward!
Thank You to Our Sponsors!
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors for their invaluable support to the Inventor Smart Community. Their contributions help us provide essential services and resources to inventors everywhere.
 Manufacture your invention! Get your product to market faster with expert inventor help. Speak to the experts now. |  Obtain instant consumer insights on your product designs, images, and copy. Use coupon code INVENTOR for a special discount. |
 Celebrate your patent achievements with beautifully crafted awards. Check out exclusive offers for our community. |  Get access to a vast marketplace of freelance services. Use our exclusive link for special benefits. |
 John Rizvi offers expert patent law services. Discover more about protecting your ideas through our link. |  Find experts for each stage of your invention journey. Whether you have a big idea or need help with development, Invent Buddy is here for you. |
 Shop for designs and merchandise made specifically for inventors! Show off your hard work with products that celebrate your creativity and innovation. |  Create high-quality photos and videos for your products with ease. Explore special offers through our link. |
 Small Business Insurance Reimagined  Compare quotes from top insurers and buy instantly online, 24/7 |
Sponsorship Opportunities
Interested in promoting your product or service in our future newsletters? We offer exclusive sponsorship opportunities to help you reach a targeted audience of inventors and innovators.
Email Us or call (631) 565-7074
Download the Inventor Smart Community App
Stay connected, access exclusive resources, and join a vibrant community of inventors. The Inventor Smart Community App is your hub for networking, learning, and sharing ideas.
Don't miss out – download the app now and take your inventions to the next level!
Brian Fried's Latest Book - Now Available on Audio!
Discover the insights and strategies from Brian Fried, "The Inventor Coach," in his latest book. Whether you're just starting out or looking to enhance your invention journey, this book is packed with valuable advice. And now, it's available in audiobook format for your convenience!
Listen to the audiobook on Audible: Get it on Audible here
InventorMart
A shop for Inventors, innovators, and patent holders. You've worked hard on your invention, now you can wear DESIGNS & MERCH made with you in mind! Find shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, hats, stickers, blankets, and over 1,000 unique items to show that you are proud to be an inventor. Check out InventorMart at InventorMart
About Brian Fried
Brian Fried, widely recognized as "The Inventor Coach," is an accomplished innovator, author, and speaker with over 18 years of experience guiding inventors on their journey from idea to reality.
With 15 patents to his name, Brian has successfully licensed and manufactured his own inventions, earning recognition through QVC, infomercials, catalogs, and major retailers. As an invention licensing agent, Brian offers personalized coaching to help inventors commercialize their ideas into tangible products.
Brian is the founder of the National Inventor Club, a thriving community for inventors to collaborate, network, and access valuable resources. He also serves as the Chief Invention Officer at Inventor Smart, where he supports inventors through product development, licensing, and commercialization strategies.
In October 2023, Brian launched the Inventor Smart Community app, available on Google Play and the Apple App Store. This innovative platform serves as a social network and resource hub exclusively for inventors, fostering connections and providing tools to support their creative endeavors.
As an engaging speaker, Brian captivates audiences with his expertise on invention and innovation. He has authored three practical books for aspiring inventors and hosts the "Got Invention Show," a platform showcasing inventors and their creations, offering them valuable exposure.
With his extensive experience, resourcefulness, and passion for helping inventors succeed, Brian Fried is a trusted figure in the invention community, dedicated to turning ideas into reality.
📩 Contact Brian:
🌐 brianfried.com
📱 Inventor Smart App
📧 [email protected]
🤝 Connect on LinkedIn
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Thank You for Joining Us!
We hope you enjoyed the December 2024 edition of the Inventor Smart Community Monthly Newsletter. Stay inspired, stay innovative, and keep pushing your ideas forward!
Inventively yours,
Brian Fried & The Inventor Smart Team
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