Welcome to The Inventor’s Patent Academy

This is a free learning platform designed solely to encourage, inspire, and educate entrepreneurs and inventors across the United States. Here, you’ll gain a clear understanding of how to protect your IP, find important resources, apply for patents and generate value from your big ideas.

Two people review sketches on a wooden table. A testimonial praises TIPA video modules, and four badges indicate: 100% Free, Created by Experts, Built for Everyone, and Made in the U.S.A.
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Our Partners in Patent Education

Institute for Women's Policy Research
IEC (Inclusive Engineering Consortium)
HCC Real-World Education (Houston City College)
AUTM (Assoc. of University Technology Managers)
AAU (Assoc. of American Universities)
Collaboratory for Women Innovators
IEF (Inclusive Engineering Foundation)
California State University San Marcos
SWE (Society of Women Engineers)
Lemelson MIT
ECE
AnitaB.org
NAIPEC (Native American Intellectual Property Enterprise Council)
University of Nebraska-Lincoln NUtech Ventures
Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
Project Invent
Columbia Technology Ventures
CTL (Center for Technology Licensing at Cornell University)
Ohio State University
Emory University
BWISE (Black Women in Science and Engineering)
OU Launchpad (Oakwood University)
WEPAN (Women in Engineering ProActive Network)
Qualcomm
ECEDHA (Electrical & Computer Engineering Department Heads Association)
University of Oregon
AWIS (Assoc. for Women In Science)
Boston University
Future Forward
Jackson State University
Patent Pathways
VentureWell
Oakwood University School of Business

Expertly Made

TIPA was created by patent holders, patent practitioners, and innovation experts, including Erin Kelley & Bernard Greenspan, PhD.

Get Started

Patent Essentials Course

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2 Hours

13 Lessons

This course is a distilled version of the full TIPA course, focusing on the essential elements of patent applications. It is intended for those seeking a quick start to understanding the process and learning some of the vocabulary needed to work with a patent attorney or agent, or a technology transfer office.
Business people in an entrance hall of office building

Welcome To The Patent System

Part 1 • 

1.75 Hours

8 Lessons

Your patent education begins with an overview of intellectual property rights. After that, you’ll learn about some challenges that you might face as you pursue your patents — along with strategies, tools, and tips for overcoming them.

Man at computer with project for 3d printer, tech and futuristic design process tools in office. Engineering workshop, technology developer or designer at desk with machine for model manufacturing.

Understanding Patent Law

Part 2 • 

2.5 Hours

11 Lessons

It’s time to dive into the specifics of patents, patent rights, and duration, including the steps for applying for a patent. You’ll also learn about the attorneys, patent agents, and other professionals who play a role in the process.

View from outside of the entrance to The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

Working With The Patent Office

Part 3 • 

1.75 Hours

5 Lessons

This module covers how to write claims, as well as office actions and responses. You’ll also get a breakdown of activities that occur after your patent issues — including freedom to operate, infringement, maintenance fee payments, and possible challenges to a patent.

Creating Value From Your Patent

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2 Hours

10 Lessons

This course is intended for entrepreneurs who are ready to bring their invention to the marketplace.